The application is the applying date, and on December 21st, 2012, Application No. 201280070361.2, (international application no is
The divisional application of the Chinese patent application of PCT/US2012/071421), entitled " Broadcast Controller ".
This application claims the entitled LOAD CONTROL SYSTEM HAVING submitted on December 28th, 2011
The INDEPENDENTLY-CONTROLLED UNITS RESPONSIVE TO A BROADCAST TRANSMITTER U.S. faces
When patent application No.61/580,898, the entitled LOAD CONTROL SYSTEM HAVING submitted on April 30th, 2012
The INDEPENDENTLY-CONTROLLED UNITS RESPONSIVE TO A BROADCAST TRANSMITTER U.S. faces
When the patent application No.61/640,241 and entitled LOAD CONTROL SYSTEM that are submitted on June 1st, 2012
HAVING INDEPENDENTLY-CONTROLLED UNITS RESPONSIVE TO A BROADCAST TRANSMITTER's
U.S. Provisional Patent Application No.61/654,562 priority.
Embodiment
It is outlined above and preferred embodiment described further below to will be better understood when when being read with reference to accompanying drawing.
In order to show the purpose of the present invention, currently preferred embodiments are shown in figure, wherein, multiple figures in accompanying drawing are similar
Numeral represents like, it is to be appreciated, however, that the invention is not restricted to disclosed ad hoc approach and means.
Fig. 2 shows the load control system 100 used in building 101, wherein, load control system 100 includes only
Vertical unit 102a, 102b, 102c and 102d.Also illustrate three office 104a-c and an each room of meeting room 104d-
All there is the separate unit 102a-d of their own.As described in this, each separate unit 102a-d can include at least one
Individual commander and at least one energy controller, both of which include the communication node of load control system 100.At least one energy
Controller is operable to the control signal in response to being received from least one commander, controls at least one electrical load.Such as
Shown in Fig. 2, load control system 100 includes wall-mounted dimmer switches 105,106 and motorized window treatments 107, they
It is the example of energy controller.Dimmer switch 105 can control the ceiling light 108 in separate unit 102c.Take sensor 109
It is described as the example of commander.Similarly, for example, optical sensor (not shown) can be control light modulator 105 and motorization
The commander of window Bed linens 107-and based on there is how much daylight, dim and adjust tone.
According to embodiments one or more in greater detail herein, load control system 100 also includes Broadcast Controller
180 (for example, broadcsting transmitters).For such as, but not limited to demand response and/or the function based on clock function, broadcast control
Device 180 processed can be performed to one or more energy controllers (for example, dimmer switch 105,106 and motorized window treatments
107) total system (or full building) control, how is the separate unit that can be associated but regardless of corresponding energy controller.For example,
In order to act on demand response situation, Broadcast Controller 180 can not consider one or more energy controllers (for example, light modulation
Device switch 105,106 and motorized window treatments 107) commander, and order those energy controllers perform some load
Removal function (for example, light modulation or environment photocontrol).So as to which Broadcast Controller 180 is operable to across multiple separate units
102a-d (and across multiple office 104a-c and meeting room 104d) control energy controllers.
Fig. 3 shows two separate units 110,112 (for example, subsystem) of including according to the first embodiment of the present invention
Load control system 100.Each separate unit 110,112 includes being operable to control one or more energy controller (examples
Such as, the load control with wireless receiver or transceiver for controlling electrical load in response to received wireless signal
Control equipment) one or more commanders (for example, wireless launcher).Commander is operable to for example send out radio frequency (RF) signal
It is incident upon the energy controller for controlling respective load.For example, commander can include the list for being only operable to launch RF signals
To transmitter (that is, only launching equipment), and energy controller can include the unidirectional reception that is only operable to receive RF signals
Device (that is, only receiving device).Alternatively, commander and energy controller can include bi-directional device, and each is operable to
Transmitting and reception RF signals.Load control system 100 can include the mixing of unidirectional and two-way commander and energy controller.Such as
It is previously described, the communication node of commander and energy controller as load control system 100.
Separate unit 110,112 can be installed in separation and at least part closed room in such as public building
In, and can be with mutually adjacent.Separate unit 110,112 is respectively positioned on (that is, to exist in the RF transmission ranges of Broadcast Controller 180
In total transmission region) region in.The control device of separate unit 110,112 (that is, commander and energy controller) is mutually only
On the spot it is configured and (that is, is programmed) so that energy controller is operable in response to only separate unit that (that is, separate unit is mutual
Be operating independently) commander, control connected load.However, the energy of both first and second separate units 110,112
Controller responds to the RF signals launched by the Broadcast Controller 180 of load control system 100, such as below will be more detailed
Description.
Commander and Broadcast Controller 180 are operable to according to predefined RF communication protocols, via RF signals (for example, about
434MHz), digital massage is launched to load control apparatus, such as, for example, LUTRON CLEAR CONNECT, WI-FI, WI-
One of WAX, BLUETOOTH, ZIGBEE, Z-WAVE, 6LoWPAN, KNX-RF and ENOCEAN RADIO agreements.Alternatively
Ground, commander and Broadcast Controller 180 can via such as infrared ray (IR) signal or sound (such as, voice) difference
Wireless medium transmissions digital massage.The example of RF Lighting Control Assemblies is disclosed in following commonly assigned United States Patent (USP):In
The entitled METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR CONTROLLING AND DETERMINING that on May 18th, 1999 announces
THE STATUS OF ELECTRICAL DEVICES FROM REMOTE LOCATIONS United States Patent (USP) No.5,905,442
With the entitled SYSTEM FOR CONTROL announced on October 12nd, 2004 United States Patent (USP) No.6,803,728, its all in
Appearance is hereby expressly incorporated by reference.
Broadcast Controller 180 and energy controller be operable to using time division technique communicate (that is, via RF signals transmitting and
Receive digital massage), i.e. Broadcast Controller 180 and energy controller launch digital massage during predetermined time slot.Use the time-division
The example of the RF load control systems of technology is more fully described in following commonly assigned U.S. Patent application:In 2008
The entitled COMMUNICATION PROTOCOL FOR A RADIO-FREQUENCY LOAD CONTROL submitted for 19 days 2 months
SYSTEM U.S. Patent application No.U.S.12/033,223, entire contents are hereby expressly incorporated by reference.When commander is single
During to transmitter, commander is operable to the individual digit message in multiple RF signals (that is, in multiple packets) repeatedly
Transmitting to energy controller, with reduce launched RF signals and the RF signals launched by another control device conflict can
Can property (that is, improve launched RF signals and reach the chance for expecting recipient).Load with unidirectional and bi-directional communication device
The example of control system is entitled METHOD OF CONFIGURING A TWO-WAY disclosed in 8 days March in 2012
WIRELESS LOAD CONTROL SYSTEM HAVING ONE-WAY WIRELESS REMOTE CONTROL DEVICES's
It is more fully described in commonly assigned U.S. Patent Application Publication No.2012/0056712, entire contents are hereby incorporated by making
For reference.
As shown in Figure 3, Broadcast Controller 180 is connected to network 182 (for example, LAN via network communication link 184
Or internet).Network communication link 184 can include for example according to predefined communication protocol (such as, for example, Ethernet, IP,
One of WiFi, QS, DMX, BACnet, Modbus, LonWorks and KNX agreement) operation digital communi- cations link.Alternatively
Ground, network communication link 184 can include serial digital communications link, RS-485 communication links, RS-232 communication links, numeral
One of addressable lighting interface (DALI) communication link or LUTRON ECOSYSTEM communication links.Load control system 100
The computing device for enabling Internet protocol is may further include, for example, tablet personal computer 185 is (such as,Tablet personal computer),
Smart phone is (such as,OrSmart phone), personal computer (PC) or
Laptop computer, for launching digital massage to Broadcast Controller 180 via network 182.
Electric utility 183 can be launched demand response order to wide via network 182 and/or network communication link 184
Broadcast controller 180.In addition, Broadcast Controller 180 can to clocking commands, load shedding order, peak demand order or via
The period price information that network 182 and/or network communication link 184 are received.For example, Broadcast Controller 180 is operable to
The costly time of electricity, in response to period price information, reduce the energy expenditure of energy controller.Moreover, Broadcasting Control
Device 180 can make sound via network 182 and/or network communication link 184 to the XML data received from Web service interface
Should.Load control system 100 can include being used to launch digital massage to the additional broadcast controller of additional separate unit
180.Broadcast Controller 180 is operable to be in communication with each other via network 182 or via RF signals.
As shown in Figure 3, the energy controller (that is, load control apparatus) of the first separate unit 110 can be included for example
Dimmer switch 210, insertion load control apparatus (PID) 220, Temperature-controlled appliance 230 and closing of contact output (CCO)
Sub-assembly 240.The commander of first separate unit 110 can include remote controllers 250, take sensor 260 and temperature
Sensor 270.The energy controller of second separate unit 112 can be including using in digital ballast controller 310, motorized window
Product 320 and Temperature-controlled appliance 330.The commander (that is, wireless launcher) of second separate unit 112 can include battery
Remote control of powering remote controllers 350, take sensor 360 and solar sensor 370.Take sensor 260,360,
Solar sensor 270 and temperature sensor 270 provide a variety of loads for the first and second separate units 110,112
Automatically control, and remote control remote controllers 250,350 allow the manual override (override) automatically controlled of load.The
One and second separate unit 110,112 can include additional-energy controller and commander.In addition, load control system 100 can
With including load separate unit.
The dimmer switch 210 of first separate unit 110 is suitable in exchange (AC) power supply (not shown) and lighting load 212
Between be electrically connected in series coupling, for controlling to be transferred to the quantity of power of lighting load.Dimmer switch 210 may be adapted to wall-mounted
In standard electrical wall case, or desktop load control apparatus can be alternatively implemented as.Dimmer switch 210 includes
Switch starter 214 and intensity adjustment starter starter 216.The startup switching (that is, close and open) of switch starter 214
Lighting load 212, and the startup of the upper and lower part of intensity adjustment starter starter 216 is respectively in minimum strength LMIN(example
Such as, about 1%) to maximum intensity LMAXThe present lighting intensity L of lighting load is increasedd or decreased between (for example, about 100%)PRES。
Dimmer switch 210 can also be operable to respond in the RF received from remote control remote controllers 250 and take sensor 260
Signal, controls lighting load.Dimmer switch 210 is operable to make present lighting intensity L within die-away timePRESFrom the last the first
Degree is attenuated to the second intensity so that illumination intensity can be conditioned at leisure, and intensity adjustment can not be by the user in space
Note.Dimmer switch 210 also includes multiple visual detectors 218, for example, light emitting diode (LED), it is in dimmer switch
On be arranged to linear array, and be illuminated the feedback of the intensity to provide lighting load.The example of dimmer switch is
In the United States Patent (USP) No.5,248,919 for the entitled LIGHTING CONTROL DEVICE that September in 1993 is announced on the 29th in more detail
Ground is described, and entire contents are hereby expressly incorporated by reference.Alternatively, load control system 100 can include electronic switch (not
Show), its be operable in response to switch starter startup or receive RF signals, simply open and close lighting load or
Other electrical loads.
The minimum strength L of dimmer switch 210MINWith maximum intensity LMAXTuning process can be used to be conditioned.For example, with
Family can within the scheduled volume time, press and hold switch starter 214 and intensity adjustment starter starter 216 it is upper
Portion, to enter maximum intensity tuning mode.In one or more embodiments, user, can be substantially same within the scheduled volume time
When (for example, simultaneously, the identical period, concurrent and/or overlap) start switch starter 214 and intensity adjustment starter starter
216 top, to enter maximum intensity tuning mode.Under maximum intensity tuning mode, dimmer switch 210 makes expression maximum
Intensity LMAXThe flicker of one of the visual detector 218 of value.User can start the top of intensity adjustment starter starter 216
And bottom, it is respectively increased and reduces maximum intensity LMAXValue.Dimmer switch 210 can ring under maximum intensity tuning mode
Should be in the startup of intensity adjustment starter starter 216, one of visual detector that regulation is flashing and/or lighting load
212 intensity.In selection maximum intensity LMAXDesired value after, user can start switch starter 214, to exit maximum
Intensity tuning pattern.Similarly, user can press within the scheduled volume time and hold switch starter 214 and intensity adjustment
The bottom of starter starter 216, to enter minimum strength tuning mode, regulation minimum strength LMINValue.
Fig. 4 shows the exemplary reduced block diagram of dimmer switch 210.Dimmer switch 210 is included in the He of AC power supplies 1002
The controllable conductivity equipment 2010 of coupling is electrically connected in series between lighting load 1004, the work(of lighting load is delivered to for control
Rate.Controllable conductivity equipment 2010 can include relaying or the bidirectional semiconductor of other switching equipment or any suitable type is opened
Close, such as, for example, the field-effect transistor (FET) or anti-series in triac, rectifier bridge connect
Two FET connect.Controllable conductivity equipment 2010 includes the control input coupled to drive circuit 2012.
Dimmer switch 210 further comprises the microprocessor 2014 coupled to drive circuit 2012, for make can conduct
Electric equipment 2010 is conductive or non-conductive, so as to control to be delivered to the power of lighting load 2004.Microprocessor 2014 be able to can be replaced
Include microcontroller, PLD (PLD), application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), field programmable gate array with changing
(FPGA) or any suitable processing device or control circuit.Zero-crossing detector 2015 determines the input from AC power supplies 2002
The zero crossing of AC waveforms.Zero crossing can be each half period beginning AC power supplies voltage from positive pole be transitioned into negative pole or
The time of positive pole is transitioned into from negative pole.Microprocessor 2014 receives zero crossing information from zero-crossing detector 2015, and will control
Input processed is supplied to drive circuit 4012, so that pre- timing of the controllable conductivity equipment 2010 in the zero cross point relative to AC waveforms
Between locate it is conductive and nonconductive.Dimmer switch 210 may further include sub-audible sound maker (not shown), can for generating
Listening.
Microprocessor 2014 is received from mechanical switch 2016 and inputted, and the mechanical switch 2016 is installed in dimmer switch
On 210 printed circuit board (PCB) (not shown), and it is arranged to and is opened by rocking bar starter starter (not shown) and intensity adjustment
Dynamic device starter (not shown) starts.Microprocessor 2014 also controls the light emitting diode being also mounted on printed circuit board (PCB)
2018.Light emitting diode 2018 can be arranged to for example by light-pipe structure (not shown), and irradiation dimmer switch 210 is just
One or more positioning indicator (not shown) on face.Microprocessor 2014 is also coupled to memory 2020, is adjusted for storing
One or more unique identifiers (for example, address) of light device switch 210, the instruction for controlling lighting load 2004, it is used for
Programming instruction communicated via wireless communication link etc..Memory 2020 may be implemented as external integrated (IC) or micro- place
Manage the internal circuit of device 2014.Generation direct current (DC) voltage of power supply 2022 VCC, for microprocessor 2014, memory 2020,
And other low-voltage circuits of dimmer switch 210 are powered.
Dimmer switch 210 further comprises wireless communication module 2030, for RF signals to be launched to its corresponding command
Device and/or Broadcast Controller 180 and/or receive RF signals from its corresponding command device and/or Broadcast Controller 180.Radio communication
Module 2030 can include RF transceivers and antenna.For wall-mounted dimmer switches antenna example entitled
COMPACT RADIO FREQUENCY TRANSMITTING AND RECEIVING ANTENNA AND CONTROL DEVICE
EMPLOYING SAME on November 9th, 1999 announce United States Patent (USP) No.5,982,103 and in public affairs on April 22nd, 2008
The United States Patent (USP) No.7 of cloth, is more fully described in 362,285, entire contents are hereby expressly incorporated by reference.
Dimmer switch 210 further comprises optical module 2040, such as, for example, optical signalling receiving circuit.Optical mode
Block 2040 can optically be coupled to optical receiver (not shown).Optical module 2040 (can not shown for example by light pipe
Go out), coupled to the optical receiver on the front of dimmer switch 210 so that optical module 2040 can be via light pipe, from one
Individual or multiple commanders (for example, tablet personal computer 185 or smart phone) and/or the receiving optical signal of Broadcast Controller 180.Example
Such as, optical module 2040 can include the light responded to the optical signalling launched by commander and/or Broadcast Controller 180
Electric diode (not shown).In addition, the photodiode of optical module 2040 can be controlled by microprocessor 2014, so as to for example
Optical signalling is launched to one or more commanders and/or Broadcast Controller 180.Optically digital massage is launched to negative
The example for carrying the method for control device is the entitled METHOD OF OPTICALLY submitted on June 29th, 2012
TRANSMITTING DIGITAL INFORATION FROM A SMART PHONE TO A CONTROL DEVICE's is common
The U.S. Patent application No.13/538 of transfer, is more fully described in 665, entire contents are hereby expressly incorporated by reference.
Microprocessor 2014 can determine that signal is received from which module, for example, from wireless communication module 2030 or light
Module 2040 is learned, and controllable conductivity equipment 2010 can be controlled based on those signals.Microprocessor 2014 can also be via
Optical signalling or the digital massage launched via RF signals, message is launched to one or more commanders and/or broadcast and controlled
Device 180 processed.For example, the microprocessor 2014 of dimmer switch 210 can be used for via radio communication by digital massage launch to
One or more commanders and/or Broadcast Controller 180.Digital massage can include alarm and/or on lighting load 2004
Feedback and status information.For example, whether digital massage can also include error message or can on dimmer switch 210
Via the instruction of wireless communication link or RF signal communications.
Referring again to Fig. 3, the insertion load control apparatus 220 of the first separate unit 110 is adapted for insertion into standard electric mortiser
In seat 222, for from AC power supplies receiving power.The insertion control of load control apparatus 220, which is transferred to, is inserted into insertion load control
Insertion electrical load 224 (such as, for example, desk lamp or other lighting loads or TV or other devices) in control equipment
Power.For example, insertion load control apparatus 220 is operable in response to being sensed from remote control remote controllers 250 and occupancy
The RF signals that device 260 is received, and switch on and off insertion load 224.Alternatively, insertion load control apparatus 220 can be grasped
The quantity of power that such as control is transferred to insertion electrical load 224 is made, to adjust the platform being inserted into insertion load control apparatus
The illumination intensity of lamp.In addition, load control system 100 can alternatively include controllable electrical receptacle (not shown), it, which has, uses
The integrated load control circuit of load is inserted in control or electrical load (such as, the hot water of electrical socket is not inserted into for control
Device) controllable breaker (not shown).
The digital ballast controller 310 of second separate unit 112 is adapted to couple to one or more ballasts 312, uses
In the intensity for controlling corresponding gas-discharge lamp 314 (for example, fluorescent lamp).Ballast 312 can from AC power supplies receiving power, and
Can be via the special wired digital communication link 316 of such as digital addressable lighting interface (DALI) communication link coupled to number
Word ballast controller 310.Digital ballast controller 310 is operable to launch digital massage to ballast 312, for ringing
The RF signals that Ying Yucong remote controls remote controllers 350, take sensor 360 and solar sensor 370 are received, control
Gas-discharge lamp 314 processed.The example of digital electronic dimming ballast is retouched in more detail in following commonly assigned United States Patent (USP)
State:The entitled MULTIPLE-INPUT ELECTRONIC DIMMING BALLAST WITH announced on November 17th, 2009
The PROCESSOR United States Patent (USP) No.7,619,539 and entitled DISTRIBUTED announced on October 11st, 2011
INTELLIGENCE BALLAST SYSTEM United States Patent (USP) No.8,035,529, entire contents are hereby expressly incorporated by reference.
Alternatively, ballast 312 can be TW two wire ballast, and it is operable to from digital ballast controller 310 via two
Power line receiving power and communication (that is, digital massage), are such as the entitled DIGITAL LOAD submitted on January 27th, 2012
CONTROL SYSTEM PROVIDING POWER AND COMMUNICATION VIA EXISTING POWER WIRING's
U.S. Patent application No.13/359, is more fully described in 722, entire contents are hereby expressly incorporated by reference.
In addition, ballast 312 can be replaced by other kinds of energy controller (that is, load control apparatus), and such as, example
Such as, for light emitting diode (LED) driver for the intensity for controlling LED/light source (that is, LED light engine).The example of LED driver
In the commonly assigned entitled LOAD CONTROL DEVICE FOR A LIGHT-EMITTING DIODE of CO-PENDING
The LIGHT SOURCE U.S. Patent application No.12/813,908 submitted on June 11st, 2009 and on March 9th, 2012
The U.S. Patent application No.13/416 of submission, is more fully described in 741, entire contents are hereby expressly incorporated by reference.
The motorized window treatments 320 (for example, roller covering) of second separate unit 112 can be positioned in one or
Before multiple windows, the amount of the daylight for controlling to enter building.Motorized window treatments 320 are each included by roller bearing
The flexible covering fabric 322 of the rotatable support of pipe 324.Each motorized window treatments 320 are by can be located at pipe wheel pipe 324
Interior electronic drive unit (EDU) 326 is controlled.Electronic drive unit 326 is operable to rotation respective roller pipe 324, will hide
The bottom margin of shield fabric 322 is moved to fully open position and fully closed position and in fully open position and complete
Any position between full-application position (for example, preset position).Particularly, motorized window treatments 320 can be opened, with
Allow more daylight to enter building, and can be closed to allow less daylight to enter building.In addition, in motorized window
Articles for use 320 can be controlled, to provide the additional isolation for building, for example, by being moved to fully closed position, so that
Building keeps nice and cool in summer and keeps warm in winter.Alternatively, motorized window treatments 320 can include other
The daylight control equipment of type, such as, for example, motorization fabric, Rome covering, pleated covering or shutter, for non-
The jockey pulley covering system of vertical window (that is, skylight), controllable window glass (for example, electrochromism window), controllable outside
Covering or controllable shutter or skylight.The example of motorized window treatments is described in commonly assigned following patent:In
On January 10th, 2006 issue entitled MOTORIZED SHADE CONTROL SYSTEM United States Patent (USP) No.6,983,783 and
In the U.S. Patent Application Publication of entitled MOTORIZED WINDOW TREATMENT disclosed in 18 days October in 2012
No.2012/0261078, entire contents are hereby expressly incorporated by reference.
The Temperature-controlled appliance 230,330 of first and second separate units 110,112, which is operable to control, to be used to adjust
The wherein Current Temperatures T of the building of installation load control system 100PRESHeating, ventilation and air adjustment (HVAC) control
System (not shown).Each of Temperature-controlled appliance 230 is operable to determine the Current Temperatures T in buildingPRES, and control
HVAC system, so that towards set point temperatures TSETAdjust the Current Temperatures in building.For example, temperature sensor 270 can be operated
Current Temperatures T into measurement buildingPRES, and launch Current Temperatures to the first separate unit 110 via RF signals
Temperature-controlled appliance 230.In addition, the Temperature-controlled appliance 330 of the second separate unit 112 can include being used to measure in building
Current Temperatures TPRESInternal temperature sensor.Each Temperature-controlled appliance 230,330 can include respective user interfaces
232nd, 332, user interface 232,332, which has, to be used to adjust set point temperatures TSETTemperature adjustment starter starter and be used for
Show the Current Temperatures T in buildingPRESOr set point temperatures TSETVisual displays.
The closing of contact output sub-assembly 240 of first separate unit 110 is operable to control the damper of HVAC system
242, for the Current Temperatures T in the amount for adjusting the air for flowing through damper and the room for installing damperPRES.Particularly, touch
Point closure output sub-assembly 240 is coupled to controller (for example, variable air amount controller), makes resistance for controllable motors
Buddhist nun's device 242 rotates between the open and the closed positions, so that gas is flowed in room.The closing of contact exports sub-assembly 240
Be operable in response to receive RF signals from temperature sensor 270 and Current Temperatures T in determining buildingPRES, and adjust
The rotation position of the damper 242 in room is saved to flow into the amount of the air in room by Damper Control, and so as to control
Current Temperatures TPRES.Alternatively, closing of contact output sub-assembly 240 is coupled to other kinds of electrical load, is used for
Open and close electrical load or change the state of load.
Battery-powered remote control remote controllers 250,350 are operable to respectively launch RF signals to first and second
The energy controller of separate unit 110,112, the user for the multiple buttons in response to remote control remote controllers starts
(i.e. there is provided manual manipulation), controls a variety of electrical loads.Remote control remote controllers 250,350 each include unlatching by
Button 252,352, X button 254,354, rising button 255,355, decline button 256,356 and preset button 258,
358.Remote control remote controllers 250,350 can will include the sequence number of remote control remote controllers via RF signals
The digital massage of (that is, unique identifier) and the information being activated on which button are simply launched to a variety of load controls
Equipment.For example, dimmer switch 210 can respectively responsive to remote control remote controllers 250 release the button 250 and closing
The startup of button 254, opens and closes lighting load 212.Dimmer switch 210 can be respectively responsive to the rising He of button 255
Decline the intensity of the startup of button 256, rise and reduction lighting load 212.Dimmer switch 210 can be in response to preset button
258 startup, by the strength control of lighting load 212 to preset intensity.Battery-powered remote controls the example of remote controllers
It is more fully described in commonly assigned following patent application:The entitled WIRELESS announced on December 11st, 2012
BATTERY-POWERED REMOTE CONTROL HAVING UMLTIPLE MOUNTING MEANS United States Patent (USP) No.8,
The 330,638 and entitled METHOD OF PROGRAMMING A LIGHTING PRESET in the announcement on the 22nd of August in 2009
FROM A RADIO-FREQUENCY REMOTE CONTROL United States Patent (USP) No.7,573,208, entire contents are incorporated into
This is used as reference.
Take sensor 260,360 is operable to respectively launch RF signals to the first and second separate units 110,112
Energy controller, in response to detection take sensor where room in occupant existence or non-existence, control
A variety of electrical loads.Take sensor 260,360 each includes interior detectors, for example, rpyroelectric infrared (PIR) is detected
Device, it is operable to from occupant's receiving infrared-ray energy in space, so that the occupancy in inductive spacing.It is each to take
Sensor 260,360 is all operable to handle the output of PIR detectors, such as by comparing the output of PIR detectors with making a reservation for
Voltage threshold is taken, it is determined that current generation occupancy (that is, occupant's presence) or vacant situation (that is, are accounted within this space
User is not present).Alternatively, interior detectors can include supersonic detector, microwave detector or PIR detectors, surpass
Any combinations of sound wave detector and microwave detector.
The detection of each of take sensor 260,360 in space all respectively responsive to occupancy or vacant situation, " is being accounted for
With " operate under state or " vacant " state.If take sensor 260,360 is in blank state, and take sensor is rung
It should determine that space is occupied in PIR detectors, then take sensor changes into seizure condition.Dimmer switch 210, insertion load
Control device 220, Temperature-controlled appliance 230 and the closing of contact export 240 pairs of (CCO) sub-assembly by the first separate unit 110
Take sensor 260 launch RF signals respond, and digital ballast controller 310, motorized window treatments 320,
And the RF signals that 330 pairs of Temperature-controlled appliance is launched by the take sensor 360 of the second separate unit 112 respond.
Being included in the order in the digital massage launched by take sensor 260,360 can include taking order or vacant
Order.For example, in response to receiving occupancy order from take sensor 260, dimmer switch 210 can be by lighting load 212
Strength control to take intensity (for example, about 100%).In response to receiving vacant order, dimmer switch 210 will can shine
The strength control of bright load 212 is to vacant intensity, and it, which can be less than, takes intensity (for example, about 0%, i.e. disconnect).If
There is more than one take sensor 260 in one separate unit 110, then dimmer switch 210 from any one occupancy in response to passing
Sensor receives the first occupancy order, by the strength control of lighting load 212 to occupancy intensity, and in response to being sensed from occupancy
Device, which is received, takes the last vacant order that those take sensors of order are received, by the strength control of lighting load 212
To vacant intensity.Taking intensity and vacant intensity can use similar to the minimum strength L for above-mentioned dimmer switch 210MIN
With maximum intensity LMAXThe process of tuning process be conditioned.
Alternatively, take sensor 260,360 each may be implemented as vacant sensor.Vacant sensor is rung
The energy controller answered only is operated, so that in response to vacant sensor, power connection is disconnected from controlled electric load.For example, light modulation
Device switch 210 is only operable to respond to, in receiving vacant order from vacant sensor, close lighting load 212.With take and
The example of the RF load control systems of vacant sensor is more fully described in commonly assigned following patent:In 2011 8
The entitled RADIO-FREQUENCY LIGHTING CONTROL SYSTEM WITH OCCUPANCY that the moon 30 was announced
SENSING United States Patent (USP) No.8,009,042;The entitled BATTERY-POWERED announced on July 24th, 2012
OCCUPANCY SENSOR United States Patent (USP) No.8,228,184;And the entitled METHOD announced on June 12nd, 2012
AND APPARATUS FOR CONFIGURING A WIRELESS SENSOR United States Patent (USP) No.8,199,010, its whole
Content is hereby expressly incorporated by reference.
The solar sensor 370 of second separate unit 112 is mounted, to measure in the space around solar sensor
Total light intensity degree.The total light intensity degree L of the photosensitive circuit measuring in 370 pairs of inside by such as photodiode of solar sensorTOTMake sound
Should.Particularly, solar sensor 370 is operable to via RF signals, by the digital massage of the value including representing general ambient light intensity
Wirelessly launch to the energy controller of the second separate unit 112.For example, digital ballast controller 310 can in response to by
The general ambient light intensity L that solar sensor 370 is measuredTOTIncrease, and control ballast 312 reduce gas-discharge lamp 314 illumination
Intensity.The example of load control system with solar sensor is more fully described in following commonly assigned patent:In
Entitled WIRELESS BATTERY-POWERED DAYLIGHT SENSOR U.S. Patent application disclosed in September in 2010 30 days
The open No.2010/0244709 and entitled METHOD OF CALIBRATING A submitted for 30th in September in 2010
DAYLIGHT SENSOR U.S. Patent Application Publication No.2010/0244706, entire contents are hereby expressly incorporated by reference.
The energy controller (that is, load control apparatus) of load control system 100 may further include:For example, being used for
Control incandescent lamp, Halogen lamp LED, electronics low voltage lighting loads, magnetic low-voltage lighting load or another type of lighting load
One or more light adjusting circuits of intensity;Electronic switch, controllable breaker or other switching equipment, for opening and closing electricity
Power is loaded or device;Controllable electrical receptacle or controllable electric source plate, for controlling one or more insertion electrical load (such as, coffees
Kettle and space heater);Spiral luminaire including dimmer circuit and fluorescence or Halogen lamp LED;Including ballast and small-sized glimmering
The spiral luminaire of light lamp;Spiral luminaire including LED driver and LED/light source;Motor control unit, for controlling
Motor load processed, such as, ceiling fan or scavenger fan;Driver element, the projection screen for controlling motorization;Inside motorization
Or exterior shutter;Self-operated thermostatic controller, for heating and/or cooling system;Air regulator;Compressor;Electric skirting board heating
Device controller;Controllable damper;Variable air amount controller;FAI Fresh Air Intake controller;Ventilation controller;Hydraulic valve, is used
In radiant body or radiating heat system;Humidity controlling unit;Humidifier;Dehumidifier;Water heater;Boiler controller;Pond pump;Electric ice
Case;Refrigerator;TV or computer monitor;Video camera;Audio system or amplifier;Elevator;Power supply;Generator;Charger, it is all
Such as, electric car charger;Energy storage system (for example, battery, the sun or thermal energy storage system) and replacement energy hole
Device (for example, the sun, wind or heat energy amount controller).
The commander (that is, wireless launcher) of load control system 100 may further include:For example, wall-mounted take
Sensor, radiometer, cloudy day or shadow sensor, humidity sensor, pressure sensor, smoke detectors, Carbon Monoxide Detection
Device, air mass sensor, safety sensor, proximity transducer, light fixture sensor, wall-mounted keypad, remote control are remotely controlled
Device keypad processed, power or the sun are powered remote control remote controllers, remote control remote controllers key, cell phone, intelligence
Can phone, tablet personal computer, personal digital assistant (PDA), personal computer, laptop computer, clock, audio-visual control,
Key card switch, safety means (such as, fire prevention, waterproof and first-aid apparatus), power monitoring apparatus (such as, power meter, energy
Meter, practical point of table and practical ratemeter), clock, central controller or any house, business or industrial control unit (ICU).In addition,
Input equipment can include one or more separation (partition) sensors, and it, which is opened or closed according to separation, launches
RF signals.Moreover, input equipment can include light fixture sensor (for example, optical sensor), it is located in illuminator, so as to true
The state (for example, being turned on and off) of the light source of illuminator is determined, for data record.Additional-energy controller and commander
Example is more fully described in commonly assigned following application:In entitled LOAD CONTROL disclosed in 19 days April in 2012
SYSTEM HAVING AN ENERGY SAVINGS MODE U.S. Patent Application Publication No.2012/0091804, its whole
Content is hereby expressly incorporated by reference.Moreover, each of separate unit 110,112 only includes only making sound to Broadcast Controller 180
Should be without the energy controller that is responded to any commander.
According to the first embodiment of the present invention, Broadcast Controller 180 it is main by digital massage launch to separate unit 110,
112 energy controller.However, Broadcast Controller 180 is also operable to the commander from separate unit 110,112 and energy control
Device processed receives digital massage.So as to which Broadcast Controller 180 is operable to the separate unit 110,112 from load control system 100
Commander and energy controller collect data.Broadcast Controller 180 is operable to launch query messages to energy controller,
In response to the query messages, suitable data is transmitted back to Broadcast Controller by energy controller.
Broadcast Controller 180 can be operable to record the data from one or more commanders in addition.Broadcasting Control
Device 180 is operable to record and takes pattern, natural light pattern, dazzle and hatching pattern and temperature pattern.Recorded data
The energy that can be used for the prediction load control system 100 before energy controller is installed is saved.For example, installing ballast
Before 312 (that is, when non-controllable and/or non-dimming ballast controls lamp 314), Broadcast Controller 180, which can be recorded, to be come
From the number of take sensor 360, solar sensor 370 and the light fixture sensor in the illuminator where lamp 314
According to if to determine to install controllable ballast 312, if energy can be provided and saved (for example, due to when space is unoccupied
Close lamp and/or due to when exist be irradiated to natural light in space when, dim light).After energy controller is installed, broadcast control
Device 180 processed is also operable to record the data from commander and energy controller.
For example, the data collected by Broadcast Controller 180 can include the behaviour of the energy controller of separate unit 110,112
Make characteristic and setting, the number of commander and type, it is current mode, energy use information, the luminous intensity of lighting load, negative
Carry failure, the seizure condition in space, the ambient light level measured by solar sensor, the current capacities of energy storage system, with
And the state (i.e., if insertion insertion load) of insertion electrical load.In addition, Broadcast Controller 980 is operable to from occupancy certainly
The seizure condition information that sensor 260,360 is received determines additional information, for example, the number of occupant, the movement of occupant
Direction, security information are (such as, by the room of unauthorized individual's occupancy, due to the electric light in vacant room and heating and cooling
Reduction saved using obtained energy), using information, (such as, not occupied meeting room indicates that meeting room currently may be used in room
With), building using information (such as, indicating by integration work person, the information that building can be operated more effectively) and
Office worker's status information (such as, indicates the possible working all day of office worker or the relatively early information left).
Each independent initialization procedure in the first and second separate units 110,112 of load control system 100
Period, the energy controller of each separate unit can be associated (i.e., with one or more commanders of specific separate unit
It is assigned to it).For example, dimmer switch 210 can be assigned by starting the button on dimmer switch and take sensor
To take sensor 260.For RF control devices assignment process example in commonly assigned following patent application it is more detailed
Carefully describe:In U.S. of entitled RADIO-FREQUENCY LIGHTING CONTROL SYSTEM disclosed in 15 days Mays in 2008
State patent application publication No.2008/0111491, entire contents are hereby expressly incorporated by reference.Each energy controller can
It is associated with multiple commanders, and each commander can be associated with multiple energy controllers.
In addition, during the corresponding initialization procedure of the first and second separate units 110, the behaviour of load control system 100
Making characteristic and function can be programmed.For example, energy controller can be associated and be programmed, to make sound to commander
Should.In addition, the preset intensity of dimmer switch 210 can use the switch starter 214 and intensity adjustment of dimmer switch to open
The button 252-258 of dynamic device starter 216 or remote control remote controllers 250 is programmed.First and second separate units
110th, 112 can use and be configured around programming process, for example, such as previously with reference to United States Patent (USP) No.5, in 905,442 more
It is described in detail.Alternatively, the first and second separate units 110,112 can be set via in the calculating coupled to network 182
The graphical user interface run on standby (for example, tablet personal computer 185, smart phone, personal computer or laptop computer)
(GUI), it is configured using computer aided programming process, to create the database for the operation for defining corresponding separate unit.Data
At least a portion in storehouse can be uploaded to the energy controller of corresponding separate unit 110,112 so that energy controller knows
How commander is responded in the normal operation period.
As it was earlier mentioned, the energy controller of the first and second separate units 110,112 is operated independently of each other, but
The digital massage launched by Broadcast Controller 180 is responded.Do not require the energy controller of separate unit 110,112 and
In the case that commander is reprogrammed, after separate unit is configured and operated, Broadcast Controller 180 can be installed in
In load control system 100, and it is assigned to the energy controller of separate unit 110,112.So as to only pass through short additional examination
Run time, after the overall situation and the center control in separate unit 110,112 initially by trial operation to add separate unit, broadcast
Controller 180 may be added to load control system 100.
Broadcast Controller 180 is operable to disappear in response to the numeral received from network 182 via network communication link 184
Breath, it is determined that by the digital massage for the energy controller for being transmitted to the first and second separate units 110,112.Broadcast Controller
180 can also to the digital massage that is directly received via RF signals from demand response remote control remote controllers 186 or
The contact close signal received from external equipment responds.In addition, Broadcast Controller 180 be operable to it is wide via being connected to
Broadcast two power lines (that is, via power line communications (PLC) signal) transmitting of controller and receive digital massage, for example, such as existing
Previously with reference to U.S. Patent application No.13/359,722 described in.Moreover, Broadcast Controller 180 is also operable to calculate
The current location of the sun, and such as control motorized window treatments 320 prevent the sun dazzling, are such as on October 16th, 2012
The entitled METHOD OF AUTOMATICALLY CONTROLLING A MOTORIZED WINDOW TREATMENT announced
It is more detailed in WHILE MINIMIZING OCCUPANT DISTRACTIONS commonly assigned United States Patent (USP) No.8,288,981
Carefully describe, entire contents are hereby expressly incorporated by reference.
Fig. 5 shows the view of further exemplary separate unit 4001,4002.Separate unit 4001 includes being used as commander
The first and second battery-powered remotes control remote controllers 4050,4051 and take sensor 4060 and day light sensing
Device 4070.Separate unit 4001 also includes dimmer switch 4010 and motorized window treatments 4020 as energy controller.
In separate unit 4001, dimmer switch 4010 and motorized window treatments 4020 can be to from one or more commanders
Signal respond.For example, dimmer switch 4010 can be to being sensed by the first remote control remote controllers 4050, occupancy
The signal that device 4060 and solar sensor 4070 are launched responds.Moreover, as example, motorized window treatments 320 can
To be responded to the signal launched by solar sensor 4070 and remote control remote controllers 4051.Separate unit 4002 can
With including the 3rd remote control remote controllers 4052 and insertion load control apparatus (PID) 4021.For example, PID 4021 can be with
The signal of 3rd remote control remote controllers 4052 is responded.
Fig. 6 A are the simplification stereograms of Broadcast Controller 180.Broadcast Controller 180 includes having two antennas 190,191
Diversity aerial system, two antennas have being differently directed (for example, orienting mutually orthogonally) for polarity diversity.In addition,
Width d of the antenna 190,191 across Broadcast Controller 180WIt is spaced from each other, for space diversity.For example, Broadcast Controller 180
Width dW(that is, the distance that antenna 190,191 is separated) can be equal to or greater than about quarter-wave (for example, about 6.8 English
Very little, transmission frequency is about 434MHz).The polarization of antenna 190,191 and space diversity can be reduced between launched RF signals
Interference (that is, conflict), and reduce the amount that may require from Broadcast Controller 180 to the re-transmission of energy controller.
So as to which because the polarity and space diversity of antenna 190,191, Broadcast Controller 180 can be across than first and the
Bigger transmission range (for example, reaching about 70 feet) the transmitting RF signals that the commander of two separate units 110,112 can be launched.
This obtains about 15000 square feet of total transmission region, and it can be alternatively from e.g., from about 5000 to 15000 square feet.
On the contrary, if Broadcast Controller only has antenna 190, one of 191, the transmitting boundary of Broadcast Controller 180 is only about 30 English
Chi, obtains about 3000 square feet of total transmission region.So as to the use of two antennas 190,191 on Broadcast Controller 180
Obtain than only having the improvement of total transmission region of big twice of the transmission region of antenna.The polarization of antenna 190,191 and sky
Between diversity also allow the range of receiving of Broadcast Controller 180 and the equivalent increase of total receiving area.
Broadcast Controller 180 is suitable to be removably coupled to base 192, and base 192 allows the He of network communication link 184
Electrical connection for the power supply (not shown) of Broadcast Controller.Broadcast Controller 180 includes being used to configuring and controlling Broadcasting Control
The button 194 of the operation of device and separate unit 110,112 and the (example of visual detector 196 for providing the user with feedback
Such as, light emitting diode).For example, Broadcast Controller 180 can be removed from base 192, and a position is moved through, may
Purpose for detecting and/or registering other one or more nodes, such as, but not limited to commander equipment (or node), energy
Controller equiment (or node), and/or it can be included in the separate unit 110 and/or 112 being described in further detail at this
Other nodes.In addition, Broadcast Controller 180 can be removably mounted on ceiling (for example, terminal box) or ceiling
Below (for example, flushing mounted to the surface of ceiling) so that it can be with registered by Broadcast Controller 180 one or many
Individual node directly and/or indirectly communicates.Broadcast Controller 180 can alternatively be installed on wall or electronics secret room in.
Fig. 6 B show the simplification figure of the Broadcast Controller 180 ' of the alternate embodiment according to the present invention.Broadcast Controller 180 '
It can perform and describe for the same or similar function of Broadcast Controller 180 shown in Fig. 6 A.Broadcast Controller 180 includes
Two orthogonal directed antennas 190 ', 191 '.First antenna 190 ' includes the printed circuit board (PCB) being placed in Broadcast Controller 180 '
Conductive material (that is, trace) on 192 ' and it is secured in place.Second antenna 191 ' is from Broadcast Controller 180 '
Extend and can be rotated by 360 °.However, the second antenna 191 ' orients 90 ° with first antenna 190 ' always, to allow polarization point
Collection.The rotation of second antenna 191 ' simplifies the installation of Broadcast Controller 180 ', because Broadcast Controller can be installed to level
Surface (for example, ceiling) or vertical surface (for example, wall), and so as to which the second antenna 191 ' can rotate, for example, refer to
Earthward.
Fig. 7 A are the simplified block diagrams of the Broadcast Controller 180 according to the first embodiment of the present invention.Broadcast Controller 180 is wrapped
Microprocessor 3010 is included, it can alternatively include microcontroller, PLD (PLD), application specific integrated circuit
(ASIC), field programmable gate array (FPGA) or any suitable processing device or control circuit.Microprocessor 3010 is coupled to
Two RF telecommunication circuits (for example, two RF transceivers 3012,3014), its be coupled respectively to the first and second antennas 190,
191, for launching RF signals with identical frequency (for example, about 434MHz).Alternatively, RF telecommunication circuits can simply include
RF transmitters or RF receivers.Microprocessor 3010 can control two antennas 190,191 to arrive using one or more algorithms
In any one or RF transceivers 3012,3014 in the RF transceivers 3012,3014 of Broadcast Controller 180 both
Distribute resource.In one embodiment, for example, microprocessor 3010 can use two antennas using one or more algorithms
190th, 191, for multiple-input and multiple-output (MIMO) technology, two antenna transmittings and/or Wave beam forming.
As it was earlier mentioned, Broadcast Controller 180 (and energy controller) is operable to according to time division technique in pre- timing
Launch digital massage in gap.So as to, Broadcast Controller 180 be operable in two different corresponding time slots two antennas 190,
Launch digital massage on 191.For example, microprocessor 3010 is operable to make the first RF transceivers 3012 pass through in the first slot
First RF signals are launched by first antenna 190, and make the 2nd RF transceivers 3014 in the second time slot via the second antenna
191 the 2nd RF signals of transmitting.First and second RF signals can include same numbers message (that is, same commands, inquiry, data
Deng).First and second time slots are not overlapping, and the first time slot can be close in appearance before the second time slot.Alternatively, first
The first and second RF signals can be launched in randomly selected time slot with the 2nd RF transceivers 3012,3014, for example, being selected from
Multiple non-overlapping slots.When load control system 100 includes additional broadcast controller, other Broadcast Controllers are operable to
Launch in additional time slot (that is, different from the first and second time slots).
Broadcast Controller 180 is operable to receive via both first and second antennas 190,191, by commander or energy
The RF signals that one of controller is launched (i.e., simultaneously) in single time slot.First RF transceivers 3012 be operable in response to
RF signals are received by first antenna 190, generation first receives signal, and the 2nd RF transceivers 3014 are operable to response
In receiving RF signals by the second antenna 191, generation second receives signal.Microprocessor 3010 is operable to receive first and the
Two receive signal, and receive signal by processing first and second, to the nothing received by the first and second antennas 190,191
Line signal responds.For example, microprocessor 3010, which is operable to decoding first and second, receives signal, and to being solved first
One of first and second reception signals of code respond.Alternatively, microprocessor 3010 is operable to determine first and the
Which in two reception signals has larger signal intensity, and makes sound to the reception signal with larger signal intensity
Should.Receive signal in addition, microprocessor 3010 is operable to combination first and second and combined signal is responded.
In one or more embodiments, Broadcast Controller 180 can be using one or more algorithms, to allow each two
Each respective antenna in antenna 190,191 distributes one or more transmission time slots.For example, Broadcast Controller 180 can be by two
One or more transmission time slots of individual antenna 190, one of 191 are assigned to the first wireless device (that is, RF transceivers 3012),
And the identical traffic time slot of second in two antennas 190,191 or one or more different transmission time slots can be referred to
The wireless device of dispensing first.As further example, Broadcast Controller 180 can be by one in two antennas 190,191
Or both one or more transmission time slots be assigned to the second wireless device, one or more transmission time slots can be differently configured from
It is assigned to the transmission time slot of the first wireless device.In other embodiments, two antennas 190,191 can be used for from broadcast control
One or more equipment (or node) (for example, commander or energy controller etc.) that device 180 processed can communicate receive signal.Example
Such as, the algorithm of Broadcast Controller 180 can estimate verification and/or other quality controls associated with two antennas 190,191 respectively
Measure processed, may be relatively reliable and/or can with which signal (or packet etc.) for determining to receive via two antennas 190,191
To meet predetermined quality threshold value.
Because the regulations in the presence of the power to wireless radio transmission are limited, Broadcast Controller 180 can using a kind of or
Many algorithms control the radio transmission power of one or more RF signals launched from two antennas 190,191.For example, broadcast
Controller 180 can use two antennas 190,191 to limit or below conventional transmission power with conventional transmission power and limit, respectively
Transmission signal, so as to effectively increase the transmission range of the one or more wireless devices used by Broadcast Controller 180.
Broadcast Controller 180 may be configured to launch the first command signal at least one via first antenna 190
Energy controller, and may be configured to launch the second command signal at least one energy control via the second antenna 191
Device processed.At least one energy controller may be configured to make the first command signal or the second command signal ratio from Broadcast Controller
180 control signals received are preferential.Broadcast Controller 180 may be configured to the specified transmission time slot of first antenna 190
The first command signal is assigned to, and the specified transmission time slot of the second antenna 191 is assigned to the second command signal.Broadcasting Control
Device 180 may be configured to determine the first transimission power for the first command signal, and determine to be used for the second command signal
The second transimission power.Broadcast Controller 180 can be configured to the first transimission power or less than the first transimission power warp
First command signal is launched by first antenna 190, and with the second transimission power or less than the second transimission power via second day
Line 191 launches the second command signal.
As shown in Figure 7A, microprocessor 180 is operable to receive user's input from button 194, and puts photopic vision and refer to
Show device 196 to provide feedback.Broadcast Controller 180 can also include being used to provide the user with during configuration and normal operating instead
The sub-audible sound maker 3016 of feedback.Microprocessor 3010 is also coupled to memory 3018, for storing Broadcast Controller 180
Operating characteristic.Memory 3018 may be implemented as the internal circuit of external integrated (IC) or microprocessor 3010.Micro- place
Reason device 3010 is operable to be connected to via telecommunication circuit 3020 (for example, ethernet communication circuit) and network connection port 3022
Network communication link 184.Broadcast Controller 180 also includes closing of contact input circuit 3024, for via contact closure port
3026 receive the contact close signal received from external equipment.
Broadcast Controller 180 can include one or more rechargeable batteries 3030, be used for for generating to microprocessor
3010th, the cell voltage V that other low-voltage circuits of RF transceivers 3012,3014 and Broadcast Controller are poweredBATT.Broadcast
Controller 180 may be adapted to receive AC line voltages or D/C voltage via power port 3032 (for example, USB port).Battery 3030
It is operable to, when Broadcast Controller 180 is connected to base 192, charge from power port 3032 via charging circuit 180.Broadcast
Controller 180 can be removed and be relocated from base 192, to simplify the configuration process of load control system 100.Can
Alternatively, Broadcast Controller 180 can include internal electric source (not being battery 3030), and can be all the time by power port
3032 power supplies.
Fig. 7 B are the simplified block diagrams of the Broadcast Controller 180 " of the alternate embodiment according to the present invention.Broadcast Controller 180 "
With the functional block similar with the Broadcast Controller 180 shown in Fig. 7 A.However, Broadcast Controller 180 " communicates with single RF
Circuit (for example, RF transceivers 3012 "), rather than two separation RF transmitting-receivings of the Broadcast Controller 180 shown in Fig. 7 A are believed
Machine 3012,3014.RF transceivers 3012 " are by RF switches 3013 " coupled to two antennas 190,191.Microprocessor 3010 "
Can control RF switch 3013 " position and two antennas 190,191 in which be coupled to RF transceivers 3012 ", and
And so as to launch RF signals.Especially, microprocessor 3010 " is operable to control RF switches 3013 " to first position, by RF
Transceiver 3012 " is coupled to first antenna 190, the first wireless signal is launched in the first slot, and control RF switches to arrive
The second place, is coupled to the second antenna 190 by RF transceivers, second wireless singal is launched in the second time slot, when second
Gap immediately can occur after the first slot.When Broadcast Controller 180 " does not launch RF signals, microprocessor 3010 " can be with
RF switches 3013 " are locked in a position so that one only in antenna 190,191 can receive RF signals.For example, for figure
Broadcast Controller 180 ' shown in 6B, microprocessor 3010 " can control RF to switch 3013 " to the second place so that second
(and adjustable) antenna 191 ' can receive RF signals.
Can be with during or after each configuration process of the energy controller in the first and second separate units 110,112
It is associated with Broadcast Controller 180.For example, Broadcast Controller 180 can be installed in load control system 100, and
It is associated with the energy controller of separate unit 110,112 after separate unit is configured and operated.With Broadcast Controller 180
Then associated energy controller responds to the digital massage launched by Broadcast Controller.For example, energy controller it
One can be associated with Broadcast Controller 180 by starting the button on energy controller, until energy controller enters to enter the GATT
Untill gang mould formula, and then start one of button 194 on Broadcast Controller.Broadcast Controller 180 can be by broadcast address
Transmitting is to energy controller, and then it can preserve the broadcast address received from Broadcast Controller.Broadcast Controller 180 can be with
Make one of visual detector 196 flash, and/or when with energy controller associate completion when, generate sub-audible sound.Broadcasting Control
Device 180 can be removed from base 192, and move closer to energy controller, to simplify configuration process.
Alternatively, Broadcast Controller 180 can in response to button 194 startup, initially enter association mode, and so
After can repeatedly launch broadcast address under association mode.If the starter starter on energy controller is activated,
Broadcast Controller repeatedly launches broadcast address under association mode simultaneously, then energy controller can each of preserve from broadcast
The broadcast address that controller 180 is received.
After associated with the energy controller of separate unit 110,112, Broadcast Controller 180 be operable to by including
The digital massage of one of multiple operator schemes is launched to energy controller.The energy controller of separate unit 110,112 in response to
The digital massage including one of operator scheme is received from Broadcast Controller 1 80, is automatically grasped according to one of various control algorithm
Make.For example, Broadcast Controller 180 can be coupled to central controller or processor (not shown) via network 182, for receiving
Operator scheme, to launch to separate unit 110,112.Alternatively, Broadcast Controller 180 can be in response to from coupled to network
The digital massage that 182 building or EMS is received, in response to being connect via internet from long-range " cloud " server
The digital massage received, or in response to inputting the contact close signal received via the closing of contact, by one of operator scheme
Launch to the energy controller of separate unit 110,112.Energy controller is operable in response to current mode and storage
In one or more of the memory of energy controller operating characteristic, respective load is controlled.
In addition, Broadcast Controller 180 is operable to that the digital massage transmitting of the order for controlling association load will be included
To energy controller.For example, order can include the order for being turned on and off load, the life for adjusting the quantity of power for being transferred to load
Make, increased or decrease the order of the set point temperatures of heating and cooling system, time delay (that is, to be received load from order
The controlled time) and die-away time (that is, the amount for loading the time that desired value is adjusted to from initial value).
Broadcast Controller 180 can also provide the concentration clock control of separate unit 110,112.For example, Broadcast Controller
180 will can periodically launch to energy controller when the day before yesterday.Each energy controller can pass through clock program
Be programmed, in response to by Broadcast Controller 180 launch when the day before yesterday when and control electrical load.Clock program can be by
It is stored in the memory 3018 of Broadcast Controller 180.Broadcast Controller 180 can include astronomical clock, or can be via
Internet is from cloud server period information.In addition, in addition to launching when will work as the day before yesterday to energy controller, Broadcasting Control
Device 180 can store the clock program for controlling electrical load, and can be in response to when the day before yesterday and by alternative command
Launch to energy controller.Opened or scanning shutdown command hair for example, Broadcast Controller 180 be able to will be scanned with every clock program
Energy controller is incident upon, at the end of on weekdays, one or more electrical loads are opened and closed respectively.Moreover, broadcast control
Device 180 processed can be in response to clock program, by one of operator scheme transmitting to energy controller.In one or more embodiments
In, Broadcast Controller 180 can include one or more processors (or controller) equipment, one or more memories, at least
One power supply, and/or one or more wireless communication transceivers (can be communicated with two antennas 190,191).One or many
Individual processor device may be configured to perform a variety of functions, such as, but not limited to time clock feature and/or demand response function
Those associated functions.
The operator scheme launched by Broadcast Controller 180 can include such as normal mode, standard requirement response (DR) mould
Formula, urgent need response (DR) pattern, leisure pattern, safe mode and preconditioned pattern.In standard requirement response modes and
During urgent need response modes, energy controller operates into total power consumption (that is, the removal of reduction load control system 100
Load).For example, when lighting load is opened, dimmer switch 210 can be by the current intensity L of lighting load 122PRESReduce
Scheduled volume, when room is not occupied, closes lighting load, and if there is sufficient daylight in a room, then in response to day
Optical sensor, reduction current intensity LPRES.In addition, motorized window treatments 320 can reduce covering fabric 322, to cover
Window, and the additional isolation for building is provided during standard requirement response modes and urgent need response modes, or
Person can alternatively raise covering fabric, to allow more sunlight to enter room.
Moreover, during standard requirement response modes and urgent need response modes, when cooling down building, temperature control
Equipment 230,330 can increase the set point temperatures T of HVAC systemSET, and when heating building, reduce HVAC system
Set point temperatures TSET, to reduce the energy expenditure of HVAC system.In addition, Temperature-controlled appliance 230,330 is operable in mark
During quasi need response modes and urgent need response modes, HVAC system is closed.Energy controller is in the demand response pattern phase
Between operation can depend on when the day before yesterday or current annual time.In addition, energy controller is during demand response pattern
Operation can depend on current mode or the current scene selected in separate unit.If for example, in separate unit
" introduction " or " meeting " scene and the emission standard demand response pattern of Broadcast Controller 180 are selected, then the energy of separate unit
Controller does not respond to standard requirement response modes, not disturb ongoing meeting.
Broadcast Controller 180 is operable to, in response to a variety of different inputs, make energy controller respond into standard requirement
Pattern or urgent need response modes.When initially entering any one in demand response pattern, Broadcast Controller 180 can give birth to
Into sub-audible sound and/or one of visual detector 196 flicker (that is, generation visually indicate) can be made.In addition, being rung when in demand
When answering any one in pattern, energy controller can generate sub-audible sound or flash visual detector.Alternatively, broadcast
Controller 180 can launch digital massage via network 182 so that when Broadcast Controller 180 initially enters demand response pattern
In any one when, Email or text are sent, or the graphical user that can be run on tablet personal computer 185 or PC connects
Message is shown on mouth (GUI).Broadcast Controller 180 is operable in response to being manually entered, such as, for example, demand response is long-range
Control the startup of the demand response start button 188 of remote controllers 186 or be shown in tablet personal computer 195 or coupled to network
The choosing of beginning option on webpage on other computing devices (for example, personal computer or smart phone) of communication link 184
Select, by one of standard requirement response modes and urgent need response modes transmitting to energy controller.In addition, Broadcast Controller
180 are operable to one of the event clock in response to being created using computing device, mission need response modes.
Moreover, Broadcast Controller 180 is operable to automatically make energy controller enter one of demand response pattern.Example
Such as, load control system 100 may further include closing of contact interface unit (not shown), for from electric utility 183 or
Integrator receives wireless signal (for example, cellular signal).Closing of contact interface unit can point to Broadcast Controller 180, to pass through
By the closing of contact input signal received by closing of contact input circuit 5024, one of mission need response modes.Alternatively
Ground, the central controller of load control system 100 can be received via network 182 from electric utility 183 or integrator to communicate, and
And one or more digital massages can automatically be launched to Broadcast Controller 180, for making Broadcast Controller ring demand
The transmitting of one of pattern is answered to energy controller.In addition, central controller can be all from electric utility or integrator via network 182
Demand response state or order are downloaded to phase property, and state or order of the Broadcast Controller 180 in response to download can be made, will
One of demand response pattern is launched to energy controller.
Broadcast Controller 180 is operable to, for example by the way that normal mode is launched to energy controller, make energy controller
Exit standard requirement response modes or urgent need response modes.Broadcast Controller 180 is operable in response to being manually entered, all
Such as, for example, the startup of the demand response stop button 189 of demand response remote control remote controllers 196, in response to being shown in
Coupled to the selection of the stopping option of the webpage on the computing device of network communication link 184, or in response to by computing device
The event clock of establishment, makes energy controller exit demand response pattern.In addition, Broadcast Controller 180 be operable in response to
In the removal of the signal of closing of contact input, in response to via network 182 from electric utility 183 or integrator receive it is logical
Letter, or in response to the demand response state of download or order, energy controller is exited demand response pattern.And
And, energy controller is operable to after the scheduled volume time stop from demand response pattern.
Broadcast Controller 180 is operable to " pre-process " building, wherein, in standard requirement response modes (wherein, HVAC
System will consume less power) under before operating energy controller, installation load control system 100.Broadcast Controller 180 can be with
Before energy controller is operated under standard requirement response modes, transmitting includes the digital massage of preconditioned pattern.Pre-
Under tupe, Temperature-controlled appliance 230,330 is operable to, when HVAC system cools down building, pre-cool building,
And when HVAC system heats building, building is heated in advance.
The operating characteristic and function of the operator scheme of energy controller can be programmed to out-of-the-box so that as long as energy
Amount controller is associated with Broadcast Controller, and each of energy controller is made to the operator scheme launched by Broadcast Controller 180
Go out response.In addition, the operating characteristic and function of the operator scheme of energy controller can be alternatively by client's Configuration Online (examples
Such as, using the web browser on personal computer), and be then programmed into wide during the manufacture processing of Broadcast Controller
In the memory for broadcasting controller 180 so that load control system 100 1 is mounted and associated with Broadcast Controller can grasped
Make.Moreover, the control algolithm of each energy controller for example can be programmed using hand-held programmer, numeral is disappeared
Breath is launched to energy controller.However, not all energy controller can be to all behaviour for being launched by Broadcast Controller 180
Operation mode responds.So as to if energy controller receives the operator scheme for being included in and not being configured in energy controller
Digital massage, then energy controller be defaulted as normal mode.For example, dimmer switch 210 can not be to including pretreatment mould
The digital massage of formula responds.
For example, dimmer switch 210 can be in normal mode, standard requirement response modes, urgent need response modes, spare time
Operated under free time pattern and safe mode.When dimmer switch 210 from Broadcast Controller 180 receive including operator scheme it
During one digital massage, dimmer switch implement either operational mode regulation process 400, to start operation according to suitable control algolithm.
When one of commander of separate unit from dimmer switch 210 receives digital massage, dimmer switch is according to from broadcast
The current mode that controller 180 is received, performs control process 500.Dimmer switch 210 uses normal intensity LNORM、
Demand response adjusts back (setback) ΔDRAnd daylight illumination readjustment ΔDL, lighting load is determined during control process 500
212 current intensity LPRES, for example,
LPRES=(1- ΔsDR)·(1-ΔDL)·LNORM
When operating in the normal mode, dimmer switch 210 controls the current intensity L of lighting load 212PRESTo normal
Intensity LNORM, and can in response to the button 252-258 of remote control remote controllers 250 startup, adjust normal intensity
LNORM.Demand response adjusts back ΔDRRepresent when dimmer switch 210 is operated under demand response pattern, lighting load 212 work as
Preceding intensity LPRESFrom normal intensity LNORMThe percentage being scaled down.Daylight illumination adjusts back ΔDLRepresent when daylight illumination is opened
During with for dimmer switch 210, the current intensity L of lighting load 212PRESFrom normal intensity LNORMThe percentage being scaled down
Than.
Fig. 8 A are at step 410 when dimmer switch receives the digital massage including one of operator scheme, by adjusting
The operator scheme that light device switch 210 is performed adjusts the simplified flowchart of process 400.If at step 412, at step 410
The operator scheme received is arranged to dimmer switch 210 (that is, dimmer switch responds to the pattern), and
Step 414 place, received operator scheme is normal mode, at step 415, and dimmer switch 210 returns demand response
Adjust ΔDRIt is set to 0%.Then, before operator scheme regulation process 400 is exited, at step 416, dimmer switch 210 is prohibited
Operate that (that is, dimmer switch 210 will not be made to take sensor or solar sensor in the normal operation period with all the sensors
Go out response), and at step 418, daylight illumination is adjusted back into ΔDLIt is set to 0%.
If at step 420, received operator scheme is standard requirement response modes, then at step 422, is adjusted
Demand response is adjusted back Δ by light device switch 210DRIt is set to the first predetermined readjustment amount ΔDR1, for example, about 20%.Then, in step
At 424, dimmer switch 210 enable vacant sensor operations (that is, dimmer switch will respond to vacant message, without
It is by being assigned to the occupancy message that the take sensor of dimmer switch is launched), and enable at step 426 daylight illumination behaviour
(that is, dimmer switch will be responsive to the general ambient light intensity measured by the solar sensor for being assigned to dimmer switch to work, and regulation is pre-
Put intensity LPRES).Finally, at step 428, dimmer switch 210 sets demand response (DR) time out period, and operates mould
Formula regulation process 400 is exited.Before operator scheme regulation process 400 is exited, if at step 430, received behaviour
Operation mode is urgent need response modes, then at step 432, and demand response is adjusted back Δ by dimmer switch 210DRIt is set to
Two predetermined readjustment amount ΔsDR2(for example, about 90%), at step 424, enables vacant sensor operations, at step 426, enables
Daylight illumination is operated, and at step 428, sets demand response time out period.At the end of demand response time out period, adjust
Demand response for example (that is, is adjusted back Δ by light device switch 210 by changing into normal modeDR0% is set to, all sensings are disabled
Device is operated, and daylight illumination is adjusted back into ΔDLIt is set to 0%), automatically exits demand response pattern.
If at step 434, received operator scheme is leisure pattern, then at step 436, dimmer switch
210 enable take sensor operation (that is, dimmer switch by by be assigned to dimmer switch take sensor launch accounting for
With message and vacant message response).Then, before operator scheme regulation process 400 is exited, at step 438, light modulator is opened
Closing 210 disabling daylight illumination operations, (that is, dimmer switch 210 is not responded in the solar sensor for being assigned to dimmer switch
And adjust preset intensity LPRES), and at step 418, daylight illumination is adjusted back into ΔDLIt is set to 0%.If in step 440
Place, received operator scheme is safe mode, then at step 442, and dimmer switch 210 is by the preset strong of lighting load
Spend LPRESIt is equal to maximum intensity LMAX(that is, 100%) so that preset intensity LPRESIt is not dependent on normal intensity LNORM, need
Response is asked to retreat ΔDRAnd daylight illumination readjustment ΔD LValue.Then, before operator scheme regulation process 400 is exited,
Step 444 place, the disabling all the sensors operation of dimmer switch 210, and at step 418, daylight illumination is adjusted back into ΔDLIf
It is set to 0%.If at step 412, the operator scheme received at step 410 is not arranged to dimmer switch 210,
Then dimmer switch by illumination at step 415 by adjusting back ΔDL0% is set to, all the sensors behaviour is disabled at step 415
Make, and daylight illumination is adjusted back into Δ at step 418DL0% is set to, is simply operated in the normal mode.
Fig. 8 B are when at step 510, dimmer switch is from one of commander (for example, remote control remote controllers
250th, take sensor 260 or solar sensor) when receiving digital massage, the control process performed by dimmer switch 210
500 simplified flowchart.If at step 512, dimmer switch 210 is operated in the emergency mode, then dimmer switch is not
Received digital massage is responded, and control process 500 is simply exited.If at step 514, received
The message arrived comes from remote control remote controllers 250, and at step 516, indicates opening for remote control remote controllers
Open button 252 to be activated, then at step 518, dimmer switch is by normal intensity LNORMIt is set to maximum intensity LMAX(i.e.,
100%).If at step 520, received digital massage indicates the X button of remote control remote controllers 250
254 are activated, then at step 522, and dimmer switch 210 is by normal intensity LNORMIt is set to 0% (that is, closing).If institute
The digital massage received indicates that rising button 255 at step 524 is activated or declines at step 528 quilt of button 250
Start, then respectively at step 526, dimmer switch 210 is by normal intensity LNORMIncrease scheduled volume (for example, about 1%) and
At step 530, by normal intensity LNORMReduce scheduled volume (for example, about 1%).If at step 532, received number
Word message indicates that preset button 258 is activated, then at step 534, dimmer switch 210 is by normal intensity LNORMIt is set to pre-
Put intensity LPRE。
If at step 514, received digital massage is not from remote control remote controllers 250, then adjusts
Light device switch 210 determines whether received digital massage comes from take sensor 260.Particularly, if in step 536
Place, received digital massage is the vacant message from take sensor 260, and at step 538, vacant sensor
Or take sensor operation is activated and (that is, is activated at the step 424 or 432 that process 400 is adjusted in operator scheme), in step
At 540, dimmer switch 210 is by normal intensity LNORMSet to 0% (that is, closing).If at step 538, vacant sensing
Device or take sensor operation are not enabled, then dimmer switch 210 does not adjust normal intensity LNORM.If at step 542,
Received digital massage is the occupancy message from take sensor 260, and at step 544, take sensor behaviour
It is activated, then at step 546, dimmer switch 210 is by normal intensity LNORMIt is set to maximum intensity LMAX(i.e.,
100%).
If at step 548, received digital massage is the daylight illumination message from solar sensor, and
At step 550, daylight illumination operation is activated, then at step 552, dimmer switch 210 is received in response to being included in
To digital massage in measured by general ambient light intensity LTOTDaylight illumination is set to adjust back ΔDL.If for example, general ambient light intensity
LTOTHigher than predetermined threshold, then dimmer switch 210 can increase daylight illumination readjustment ΔDLValue.Finally, in control process 500
Before exiting, normal intensity L is adjusted at step 518,522,526,530,534,540,546NORMOr adjusted at step 522
Red-letter day optical illumination adjusts back ΔDLAfterwards, at step 554, dimmer switch 210 uses normal intensity LNORM, demand response readjustment
ΔDRAnd daylight illumination readjustment ΔDL, calculate the current intensity L of lighting load 212PRESNew value.
Similarly, the implement either operational mode of the Temperature-controlled appliance 230 regulation process 600 of the first separate unit 110, to respond
In receiving the digital massage including one of operator scheme from Broadcast Controller 180, operated by suitable control algolithm.When just
When being operated under norm formula, Temperature-controlled appliance 230 controls the set point temperatures T of HVAC systemSETTo normal temperature TNORM, and
Can in response to the starter starter of user interface 232 startup, regulation normal temperature TNORM.When in standard requirement response mould
When being operated under formula, urgent need response modes or leisure pattern, Temperature-controlled appliance 230 uses offset temperatures TOSRegulation is set
Set point temperature TSET, to reduce the total power consumption of HVAC system.In addition, when being operated under preconditioned pattern, temperature control is set
Standby 230 use offset temperatures TOSAdjust set point temperatures TSET, to pre-cool or heat in advance building.
Fig. 8 C are when at step 610, Temperature-controlled appliance is received when including the digital massage of one of operator scheme, by temperature
Spend the simplified flowchart for the operator scheme regulation process 600 that control device 230 is performed.If at step 612, in step 610
The operator scheme that place is received is arranged to Temperature-controlled appliance 230, and at step 614, received operation mould
Formula is normal mode, then at step 616, and Temperature-controlled appliance is by offset temperatures TOSIt is set to 0 DEG C.Then, in operator scheme
Before regulation process 600 is exited, Temperature-controlled appliance 230 is by by offset temperatures TOSAdded to normal temperature TNORM(that is, set
Point temperature TSETEqual to normal temperature TNORM), the set point temperatures T for HVAC system is determined at step 630SET。
If at step 620, received operator scheme is any one in demand response pattern, and in step
At 622, HVAC system currently cools down building, then at step 624, and Temperature-controlled appliance 230 is by offset temperatures TOSIt is set to
Cooling requirement response readjustment temperature TDR-COOL(for example, about 3 DEG C).If at step 622, HVAC system currently heats building
Thing, then at step 626, Temperature-controlled appliance 230 is by offset temperatures TOSIt is set to demand for heat response readjustment temperature TDR-HEAT
(for example, about -3 DEG C).At step 628, Temperature-controlled appliance 230 sets demand response (DR) time out period.Finally, in operation
Before mode tuning process 600 is exited, at step 630, Temperature-controlled appliance 230 is by offset temperatures TOSAdded to normal temperature
TNORM, to determine the set point temperatures T for HVAC systemSET.So as to be operated when any one in demand response pattern is lower
When, when cooling building is (due to offset temperatures TSOFor just) when, the increase set point temperatures of Temperature-controlled appliance 230 TSET, and work as
Building is heated (due to offset temperatures TOSIt is negative) when, reduce set point temperatures TSET.At the end of demand response time out period,
Temperature-controlled appliance 230 will be for example by changing to normal mode (that is, by offset temperatures TOSIt is set to 0 DEG C) exit demand response
Pattern.
If at step 632, received operator scheme is leisure pattern, and at step 634, HVAC system
Current cooling building, then at step 636, Temperature-controlled appliance 230 is by offset temperatures TOSIt is set to cooling leisure readjustment temperature
Spend TAH-COOL(for example, about 3 DEG C).If at step 634, HVAC system currently heats building, then at step 638, temperature
Control device 230 is spent by offset temperatures TOSIt is set to heating leisure readjustment temperature TAH-HEAT(for example, about -3 DEG C).Then, pass through
By offset temperatures TOSAdded to normal temperature TNORM, at step 630, Temperature-controlled appliance 230 is determined for HVAC system
Set point temperatures TSET, and operator scheme regulation process 600 exit.So as to when being operated under leisure pattern, when cooling is built
When building thing, the increase set point temperatures of Temperature-controlled appliance 230 TSET, and when heating building, reduce set point temperatures TSET。
If at step 640, received operator scheme is preconditioned pattern, and at step 642, HVAC systems
The current cooling building of system, then at step 644, Temperature-controlled appliance 230 is by offset temperatures TOSIt is set to cooling pretreatment temperature
Spend TPR-COOL(for example, about -4 DEG C).If at step 642, HVAC system currently heats building, then at step 646, temperature
Control device 230 is spent by offset temperatures TOSIt is set to pre-heating temperature TPR-HEAT(for example, about 4 DEG C).So as to when in pretreatment mould
When being operated under formula, when cooling down building, Temperature-controlled appliance 230 reduces set point temperatures TSET, and when heating building
When, increase set point temperatures TSET.If at step 612, the operator scheme received at step 610 is not arranged to
Temperature-controlled appliance 230, then at step 616, Temperature-controlled appliance is by by offset temperatures TOSSet to 0 DEG C, simply exist
Operated under normal mode.
Although Fig. 8 A and Fig. 8 C operator scheme regulation process 400,600 are described as by dimmer switch 210 and temperature
Control device 230 is performed, but other energy controllers of the first and second separate units 110,112 also perform similar operations mould
Formula adjusts process, changes and depends on the certain loads that energy controller is controlled.In addition, as described above, the operation of energy controller
Pattern is mutually exclusive, i.e. each of energy controller single only once operating in operator scheme.Alternatively, energy
Controller once can be made in more than one mode of operation.
Each of energy controller is operable to the digital massage in response to being received from Broadcast Controller 180, and regulation is deposited
The operating characteristic of storage in memory is (for example, the first and second predetermined readjustment amount Δs of dimmer switch 210DR1、ΔDR2And temperature
Spend cooling and the demand for heat response readjustment temperature T of control device 130DR-COOL、TDR-HEAT).Operating characteristic can be transmitted to energy
Amount controller and it is stored in the memory in energy controller so that energy controller is operable in response to from broadcast control
Device 180 processed receives operator scheme, controls controlled load.Alternatively, Broadcast Controller 180 can will include operator scheme and
The digital massage of operating characteristic is launched to energy controller.
Energy controller be able to can be replaced under standard requirement response modes and urgent need response modes according to algorithms of different
Operate with changing.Fig. 9 be according to the second embodiment of the present invention have three offices 710,720,730 (for example, separate single
Member) simplification floor plan 700, it be used to showing load control system 100 how in standard requirement response modes and tight
Urgent need is asked and operated under response modes.First office 710 includes window 711 and with for controlling the fluorescent lamp in illuminator
Relative ballast 714,715 two fluorescent lighting fixtures 712,713.Ballast 714,715 is electrically coupled to electronic switch
716, it can simply open and close the fluorescent lamp of illuminator 712,713.First office 710 also includes taking sensing
Device 718, it is associated with electronic switch 716 so that electronic switch responds to the RF signals launched by take sensor.
In the normal operation period, user can manually open and close by starting the switch starter of electronic switch 716
Close the fluorescent lamp of illuminator 712,713.In addition, electronic switch 716 from take sensor 718 in response to receiving occupancy life
Order, opens the fluorescent lamp of illuminator 712,713, and in response to receiving vacant order from take sensor 718, close and shine
Bright lamp tool 712,713.In other words, in one or more embodiments, during normal mode, energy controller (electronic cutting
Close and 716) receive (or paying the utmost attention to) as the life of the take sensor 718 of the commander of energy controller (electronic switch 716)
Make signal.Because Broadcast Controller 789- launches normal mode-have electronic switch 716 (energy controller) by signal
Relieve to effect commander-take sensor 718- prior to electronic switch 716 and receive (or paying the utmost attention to) Broadcast Controller
The obligation of 780 signal, this may occur.
In certain embodiments, registered when normal mode signal is distributed to Broadcast Controller 780 by Broadcast Controller 780
Energy controller when, be generally understood as discharging corresponding energy controller from the obligation that is configured, with prior to corresponding energy
The order of controller, receives the order of (or paying the utmost attention to) Broadcast Controller.Energy controller can be according to their corresponding lives
The command operation of device is made, until Broadcast Controller 780 issues new (for example, newest or renewal) life for energy controller
Untill the time for making message (for example, standard requirement response modes), received with the commander again prior to energy controller
The order of (or paying the utmost attention to) Broadcast Controller 780.
Second office 720 also include window 721 and two illuminators 722 with relative ballast 724,725,
723 (for example, fluorescent lighting fixtures).Ballast 724,725 is electrically coupled to corresponding electronic switch 726,727 so that illuminator
722nd, 723 can independently it be turned on and off.Each of electronic switch 726,727 is associated and right with take sensor 728
It responds.In the normal operation period, electronic switch 726,727 in response to switch starter manually boot and in response to
The RF signals launched by take sensor 728, independently open and close corresponding illuminator 722,723.3rd office 730
With two illuminators 732,733 (for example, fluorescent lighting fixture), it has relative ballast 734,735 and two light modulations
Device switch 736,737, the intensity of the fluorescent lamp for controlling corresponding illuminator 732,733.Dimmer switch 736,737 is each
It is all associated with take sensor 738 and it is responded.In the normal operation period, user can open and close illumination
Light fixture 732,733, and by starting the starter starter of corresponding dimmer switch 736,737, in minimum strength LMINMost
Big intensity LMAXBetween adjust fluorescent lamp intensity.Dimmer switch 736,737 is operable in response to from take sensor 738
Occupancy order is received, the fluorescent lamp of corresponding illuminator 732,733 is opened to the first intensity (for example, about 80%) reduced,
And in response to receiving vacant order from take sensor, close corresponding illuminator 732,733.
Electronic switch 716,726,727 and dimmer switch 736,737 respond to Broadcast Controller 780.Broadcast
Controller 780 is operable to receive input in response to many introduces a collections described in the first embodiment more than, by standard requirement
Response modes and emergency response mode are launched to electronic switch 716,726 and 727 and dimmer switch 736,737.Electronic switch
716th, 726,727 and dimmer switch 736,737 in each function during the configuration process of Broadcast Controller 780 equal quilts
Programming, as described in more detail below.In addition, limiting electronic switch 716,726,727 and dimmer switch 736,737 in standard
The algorithm of operation under demand response pattern and under urgent need response modes is stored in each equipment.So as to, when
Broadcast Controller 780 launches standard requirement response modes or urgent need response modes to the and of electronic switch 716,726,727
During dimmer switch 736,737, equipment understands how to operate.
For example, during standard requirement response modes, electronic switch 726 can be in response to receiving from take sensor 728
To vacant order, illuminator 722 is closed, but is not responsive to receive occupancy order from take sensor, illuminating lamp is opened
Tool.When electronic switch 726 receives standard requirement response modes from Broadcast Controller 780 first, electronic switch is closed and most connect
The illuminator 722 of nearly window 721.If desired, the user of the second office 720 can be opened on the window of covering window 721
Articles for use, to allow more daylight to enter office.But under standard requirement response modes, electronic switch 726 can be in response to
Manually booting for switch starter, opens illuminator 722.The office of electronic switch 716 and second in first office 710
The operation of electronic switch 727 in 720 is unaffected under standard requirement response modes (that is, identical with during normal operating).
During standard requirement response modes, the dimmer switch 736,737 of the 3rd office 730 is opened in response to light modulator
Manually booting for the starter starter of pass, the second reduction intensity is restricted to (i.e., by the maximum intensity of illuminator 732,733
About 80%).When dimmer switch 736,737 receives standard requirement response modes from Broadcast Controller 780 first, light modulator
Switch makes the intensity of illuminator 732,733 slowly dimmed predetermined load removal percentage, for example, about 20%.If for example,
The intensity of each light-emitting lamp 732,733 is 80% in the normal operation period, then dimmer switch 736,737 is in standard requirement
In the response attenuation time (for example, about one minute), the intensity of illuminator is reduced to about 64% so that user will not note shining
The slow reduction of the intensity of bright lamp tool.But under standard requirement response modes, dimmer switch 736,737 is in response to from occupancy
Sensor 738 receives occupancy order, opens corresponding illuminator 732,733 to the 3rd and reduces intensity (for example, about 64%), and
And in response to receiving vacant order from take sensor, close corresponding illuminator 732,733.Alternatively, illuminator
732nd, 733 intensity can be manually manipulated during standard requirement response modes so that user can start in response to switch
The startup of the intensity adjustment starter starter 216 of device 214 and dimmer switch 736,737, the intensity of control illuminator is arrived
About full strength (for example, about 100%).
Electronic switch 716,726,727 and dimmer switch 736,737 are operable in response to being connect from Broadcast Controller 780
Normal mode is received, standard requirement response modes are exited.If when electronic switch 716,726,727 and dimmer switch 736,
737 when receiving normal mode, and office 710,720,730 is not occupied, then illuminator 712,713,722,723,732,
733 remain turned-off.If receiving normal mode when controlling the electronic switch 726 closest to the illuminator 722 of window 721
When, the second office 720 is occupied, then electronic switch opens illuminator 722.If when dimmer switch 736,737 is received
During to normal mode, the 3rd office 730 is occupied, then dimmer switch is within the scheduled volume time, by illuminator 732,733
Intensity slowly increase predetermined load removal percentage.Alternatively, when exiting standard requirement response modes, electronic switch
716th, 726,727 and dimmer switch 736,737 can not adjust the current of illuminator 712,713,722,723,732,733
State.
When electronic switch 716,726,727 receives urgent need response modes from Broadcast Controller 780, electronic switch
Corresponding illuminator 712,713,722,723 is closed, because the first and second offices have window 711,721, is used for
Daylight is allowed to enter office.During urgent need response modes, electronic switch 716,726,727 is not responsive to electronic switch
Button manually boot or the digital massage in response to being received from take sensor 718,728, open illuminator
712、713、722、723.When dimmer switch 736,737 from Broadcast Controller 780 receives emergency demand response pattern
When, dimmer switch controls intensity to predetermined minimum load removal intensity immediately (for example, about 10%).Mould is responded in urgent need
During formula, the intensity of illuminator 732,733 can not rise to more than predetermined minimum load removal intensity.Dimmer switch 736,
737 can open illuminator 732,733 and arrive predetermined minimum load in response to receiving occupancy order from take sensor 738
Removal intensity, and in response to receiving vacant order from take sensor, close illuminator.Alternatively, light modulator is opened
Closing 736,737 can be locked during urgent need response modes so that the intensity of illuminator 732,733 can not be by dialling
The startup for turning the intensity adjustment starter starter 216 of starter 214 and dimmer switch is conditioned.
If when electronic switch 716,726,727 and dimmer switch 736,737 are received normally from Broadcast Controller 780
During pattern, office 710,720,730 is not occupied, then illuminator 712,713,722,723,732,733 is remained turned-off.Ring
Ying Yu receives normal mode when office 710,720,730 is occupied from Broadcast Controller 780, electronic switch 716,
726th, 727 corresponding illuminator 712,713,722,723 is opened, and dimmer switch 736,737 controls illuminator immediately
732nd, the 733 intensity intensity that illuminator is controlled to before entering urgent need response modes.
Each energy controller can by starting the button on energy controller associated with Broadcast Controller 180,
Untill energy controller enters association mode, and then start one of button 194 on Broadcast Controller.In broadcast control
The specific button 914 being activated on device 180 processed determines the resulting function of energy controller, for example, energy controller is to standard
Demand response pattern and emergency demand response pattern, which respond, still not to respond.For example, Broadcast Controller 180
Button 194 can include standard requirement response button and urgent need response button.Limit electronic switch 716,726,727 and adjust
The algorithm that light device switchs 736,737 operation under standard requirement response modes and under urgent need response modes is stored in
In each equipment.
As described above, the operation of the electronic switch 716 in the first office 710 during standard requirement response modes not by
Influence, but be conditioned during urgent need response modes.So as in order that electronic switch 716 and the phase of Broadcast Controller 180
Association, user removes Broadcast Controller from base 192, and is gone on foot towards the electronic switch 716 in the first office 710.User
The switch starter of electronic switch 716 is pressed and holds, untill the visual detector on electronic switch starts flicker, and
And then press and hold the urgent need response button on Broadcast Controller 180, until Broadcast Controller makes to visually indicate
Untill one of device 196 glistens and generates sub-audible sound.So as to, electronic switch 716 is now associated with Broadcast Controller 180,
And only urgent need response modes will be responded.Similarly, the electronic switch 726 of the second office 720 is not to standard
Demand response mode response, but urgent need response modes are responded, and so as to similar to the first office 710
The mode of electronic switch 716 be programmed.
However, the operation of other electronic switches 727 of the second office 720 is in standard requirement response modes and urgent need
It is conditioned during both response modes.In order that electronic switch 772 is associated with Broadcast Controller 180, user's pressing and handle
Hold the switch starter of electronic switch 727, and then press and hold the standard requirement on Broadcast Controller 180 response press
Button, untill associating completion.Then, user is recycled and reused for the processing of urgent need response button, i.e. pass through pressing and handle
Hold the switch starter of electronic switch 727, and then press and hold the urgent need on Broadcast Controller 180 response press
Button.Dimmer switch 736,737 also responds to demand response pattern, and so as to which each is with similar to electronic switch
727 mode is programmed.
According to the third embodiment of the invention, Broadcast Controller 180 is operable to more than two different demands responding mould
Formula is launched to the energy controller of separate unit 110,112.For example, Broadcast Controller 180 is operable to multiple layering demands
One of response modes (such as, " situation yellow ", " situation is orange " and " situation yellow " demand response pattern) are launched to energy
Controller.The incrementss that being layered demand response pattern can reduce to load provide the situation of the minimum level of load shedding
The red demand response pattern of situation of yellow demand response pattern and maximum (i.e., most extremely) grade of offer load shedding.Extensively
Broadcast controller 180 and be operable to automatically to make energy controller in response to the communication that is received from electric utility 183 or integrator,
Into one of layering demand response pattern.For example, Broadcast Controller 180 can be received from from electric utility 183 or integrator
Communication, directly receive situation yellow, orange and red demand response pattern.
In addition, Broadcast Controller 180 is operable to automatically to make energy controller in response to from electric utility 183 or integrating
The period price information that device is received, into one of layering demand response pattern.If for example, electricity price exceedes price threshold value (its
Can be set by user), then Broadcast Controller 180 is operable to enter one of layering demand response pattern (for example, situation yellow
Demand response pattern).Alternatively, when for example in response to the event clock by user program, period price generally up to when, extensively
Broadcast controller 180 and be operable to the entry condition yellow demand response pattern during multiple periods.
Moreover, Broadcast Controller 180 is operable to automatically make energy controller use peak demand toll administration process,
Into one of layering demand response pattern.If for example, total power consumption (as measured as one or more power meters) exceedes
Peak power threshold value (it can be set by user), then Broadcast Controller 180 be operable to enter layering demand response pattern it
One (for example, situation yellow demand response pattern).Alternatively, when for example in response to the event clock by user program, total work
When rate is consumed generally up to, Broadcast Controller 180 is operable to enter situation yellow demand response pattern during multiple periods.
According to the third embodiment of the invention, the energy controller of separate unit 110,112 can be assigned to different groups
(for example, corridor, office, forever outside light, unlatching etc.), it is represented can be under layering demand response pattern by different way
Different types of region in the building of control.It is used as one of the configuration process of load control system 100 (as described above)
Point, when energy controller is assigned to Broadcast Controller 180, energy controller can be assigned to one group.In configuration process
Period, Broadcast Controller 180 can launch suitable group address to the energy controller for being assigned to Broadcast Controller, and energy
Amount controller stores group address in memory.After configuration process, Broadcast Controller 180 uses corresponding group address by number
Word message is launched to different groups, and energy controller responds to the digital massage of the group address including them.In addition, negative
Borne control system 100 can include the additional broadcast controller 180 coupled to network 182, to allow system to have added requirement
Response group.The use of group allows Broadcast Controller 180 easily associated with energy controller, so that when providing shorter trial operation
Between, to add the GF global functions provided by Broadcast Controller.
The operating characteristic of a variety of demand response patterns can use tablet personal computer 185 monitored and configure.Figure 10 A extremely scheme
10C shows to be provided and be shown on tablet personal computer 185 by Broadcast Controller 180, to allow user's monitoring to select respectively
Select the exemplary screen shots of the administration view screen of the action occurred when situation yellow, orange and red demand response pattern
800、802、804.Particularly, one of yellow, orange and red demand response pattern can be selected by clicking on appropriate label 810
Select.Left column 812 and energy controller of each display of screenshot capture 800,802,804 with polytype energy controller can
With the table for pushing up row 814 for the different groups being assigned to.Each entry in table shows that the different types of energy control in every group
How device processed responds during one of situation yellow, orange and red demand response pattern.For example, when such as institute in Figure 10 A
Show, during choice situation yellow demand response pattern, within the die-away time of one minute, the dimmer switch in corridor makes controlled photograph
Bright load weakens 30% demand response readjustment.In addition, administration view screen includes label 810, to show in each group not
How the energy controller of same type responds to period price information or using peak demand toll administration.
In addition, tablet personal computer 185 can show configuration screen (not shown), to allow user configuring and regulation situation yellow
The value of color, the operating characteristic of orange and red demand response pattern.For example, user can be according to which of corridor light modulator
Switch weakens controlled lighting load, regulatory demand response readjustment and die-away time under situation yellow demand response pattern.In addition,
When the electricity price from period price information exceedes price threshold value, or when total power consumption is in peak demand toll administration process
In exceed peak power threshold value when, which in choice situation yellow, orange or red demand response pattern user can select
It is individual.Configuration operating characteristic after, tablet personal computer 185 launches new operating characteristic to Broadcast Controller 180, itself so that will include
The digital massage of new operating characteristic is launched to the energy controller of separate unit 110,112.Energy controller, which is respectively provided with, to be stored in
Their device type and their group address in memory so that only appropriate energy controller updates their operation spy
Property.
Administration view screen also includes tuning label 816.Figure 10 D show the selection in response to tuning label 816, Ke Yixian
Show the exemplary screen shots 806 of the tuning screen on tablet personal computer 185.Tuning screen display is used for different groups of tuner
The maximum intensity L of switch and insertion load control apparatusMAX, for example, being 70% for the dimmer switch in corridor.In addition,
Tablet personal computer 185 also shows tuning configuration screen (not shown), for adjusting dimmer switch and inserting load control apparatus
Maximum intensity LMAX.Dimmer switch and insertion load control apparatus will be responsive to switch starter 214 and intensity adjustment starter
The startup of starter 216, maximum intensity L is restricted to by the current light intensity of controlled lighting loadMAX.Tuning configuration screen can be with
Allow other operating characteristics and the setting for adjusting energy controller, and be not only dimmer switch and insert load control apparatus
Maximum intensity LMAX, such as, for example, minimum strength, preset intensity, set point temperatures, time delay, die-away time, time-out week
Phase, the sensitivity setting for sensor and daylight illumination threshold value.Tuning allows the operation for easily adjusting energy controller
Characteristic and setting, after the initial trial operation of system, to improve occupant's comfort level and satisfaction.For example, energy controller
Operating characteristic and setting can be conditioned every year, to reduce the energy expenditure of load control system 800.Alternatively, if
Building has new tenant or if electric utility 183 changes the operating characteristic of demand response program, then energy controller
Can be with tuned with setting.
The event clock of Broadcast Controller 180 can use tablet personal computer 185 or other computing devices to be monitored and configure.
Alternatively, Figure 10 A to Figure 10 C administration view screen and Figure 11 tuning screen can be displayed on smart phone, individual
On computer or other suitable computing devices.
Broadcast Controller 180 may be configured to obtain control device (such as, the energy on separate unit 110,112
Controller equiment or commander equipment) information (for example, register information, status information, operation information, configuration information, and/or
Relation information etc.).Broadcast Controller 180 can communicate with can be used to any control device of two-way communication, assorted to determine
The list of other control devices can be operated in the corresponding separate unit 112 of first separate unit 110 and/or second.For example,
Broadcast Controller 180 can communicate with the first control device of the separate unit 110 that can be used to two-way communication, to obtain
The list of other control devices of the separate unit 110 that one control device could be aware that.And it is used as example, Broadcast Controller
180 can communicate with the first control device of the separate unit 112 that can be used to two-way communication, to obtain the first control device
The list of other component devices of the separate unit 112 that could be aware that.
In one or more embodiments, Broadcast Controller 180 can be obtained on the first separate unit 110 and/or
The relation information of the control device of two separate units 112.For example, the first control device of the first separate unit 110 can by with
It is set to the second control device of the first separate unit 110 of monitoring and it is responded.Second component devices may be configured to
The signal received from the first component devices how is explained in response to the second component devices, the of the first separate unit 110 of control
Three control devices.Broadcast Controller 180 can be used to one or many of the separate unit 110 of two-way communication by inquiry
Individual control device (can include first, second or third component devices), obtains first, the on the first separate network 110
The relation information of two and the 3rd component devices.Even if those one or more control devices can be unaware of first, second in itself
With the specific correlation of the 3rd component devices, Broadcast Controller 180 can also be from one or more controls of separate unit 110
Equipment obtains such correlation information.
In certain embodiments, one or more controls of the first separate unit 110 and/or the second separate unit 112 are set
Standby can only launch equipment.What can be the only transmitting of the first separate unit 110 and/or the second separate unit 112 on
Control device (or node), Broadcast Controller 180 can learn corresponding separate unit 110,112 what other equipment (or section
Point) it may be configured to monitor and/or monitor specific only transmitting equipment and the only similar correlation of launch control equipment.
According to the alternate embodiment of the present invention, Broadcast Controller 180 is operable to only one in response to corresponding separate unit
The startup of button on individual control device, all control devices (that is, commander and energy with separate unit 110, one of 112
Controller) it is associated.For example, when Broadcast Controller 180 be in association mode when, Broadcast Controller 180 be operable in response to
252 or first independent are released the button on the switch starter 214 of dimmer switch 210, remote control remote controllers 250
The startup of any other button of any control device of unit 110, performs separate unit association process.In separate unit association
Process (that is, in response to a control device in separate unit a button pressing) during, Broadcast Controller 180 can grasp
It is made all commanders (that is, remote controllers 250, take sensor 260 and temperature sensor 270) of discovery and all energy
Amount controller (dimmer switch 210, insertion load control apparatus 220, Temperature-controlled appliance 230 and CCO sub-assemblies 240),
And be found energy controller is associated with itself.So as to which all energy controllers of separate unit can be grasped
Any commander and the single depression of energy controller in response to separate unit are made, it is associated with Broadcast Controller 180.
Figure 11 A to Figure 11 F show the separate unit association process performed by Broadcast Controller 180.For example, such as Figure 11 A extremely
Shown in Figure 11 F, Broadcast Controller 180 is operable to find the control device of Fig. 5 separate unit 4001.Such as retouched on Fig. 5
State, separate unit 4001 include may be used as the first and second remote control remote controllers 4050 of commander, 4052, account for
With sensor 4060 and solar sensor 4070, it may be used as commander.Separate unit 4001 also includes may be used as energy
The dimmer switch 4010 and motorized window treatments 4020 of controller.4010 pair of first and second remote control of dimmer switch
Remote controllers 4050,4052, take sensor 4060 and solar sensor 4070 are responded, and these are ordered
The sequence number storage of device is in memory.Motorized window treatments 4020 are long-range to the remote control of solar sensor 4070 and second
Controller 4051 responds, and by the sequence number storage of these commanders in memory.First and second remote controls
Remote controllers 4050,4052, take sensor 4060 and solar sensor 4070 only launch RF signals, and are unaware of
Which energy sensor responds to them.
In order that using separate unit association process, make all energy holes of Broadcast Controller 180 and separate unit 4001
Device is associated, and while Broadcast Controller is in association mode, user can start the first remote control remote controllers
One of 4050 button.In response to the startup of the button of remote control remote controllers 4050, remote control remote controllers
4050 are operable to launch the digital massage of the sequence number including remote control remote controllers to dimmer switch 4010.
While in association mode, Broadcast Controller 180 is also operable to receive the sequence with remote control remote controllers 4050
The digital massage of row number.Then, Broadcast Controller 180 can launch query messages all into load control system 100
Energy controller, with determine which energy controller remote control remote controllers 4050 are responded (as by from connect
The sequence number identification of the digital massage received), i.e. remote control remote controllers 4050 may be configured to be used as commander
Energy controller identity.In Figure 11 A example, Broadcast Controller 180 finds the quilt of remote control remote controllers 4050
The commander for dimmer switch 4010 is configured for use as, as shown in line 4090.In response to query messages, dimmer switch
4010 are operable to launch the digital massage of the sequence number including dimmer switch to Broadcast Controller 180.Then, broadcast control
Device 180 processed can launch query messages to dimmer switch 210, to determine to may be configured to order dimmer switch 210
Commander identity.In Figure 11 B example, Broadcast Controller 180 finds remote control remote controllers 4050, takes biography
Sensor 4060 and solar sensor 4070 are configured for the commander for dimmer switch 4010, such as the institute of line 4091
Show.
Next Broadcast Controller 180 can launch query messages all energy controls into load control system 100
Device processed, to determine which energy controller responds to take sensor 4060, i.e. take sensor 4060 can be configured
Into the identity of the energy controller as commander.In Figure 11 C example, Broadcast Controller 180 finds take sensor
4060 are configured for the commander for the dimmer switch 4010 as energy controller, as shown in line 4092.So
Afterwards, Broadcast Controller 180 can launch query messages all energy controllers into load control system 100, to determine
Which energy controller responds to solar sensor 4070, i.e. solar sensor 4070 may be configured to be used as order
The identity of the energy controller of device.In Figure 11 D example, Broadcast Controller 180 finds that solar sensor 4070 is configured to
As the commander for dimmer switch 4010 and for motorized window treatments 4020, as shown in line 4093.
Due to the more commanders responsed to which in the absence of dimmer switch 4010, so Broadcast Controller 180 now may be used
So that query messages to be launched to motorized window treatments 4020, order motorized window treatments 4020 are may be configured to recognize
Commander.In Figure 11 E example, Broadcast Controller 180 finds that the second remote control remote controllers 4051 and daylight are passed
Sensor 4070 is configured for the commander for motorized window treatments 320, as shown in line 4094.Because Broadcast Controller
180 have transmitted query messages, to determine which energy controller is made to solar sensor 4070 (as shown in Figure 11 D)
Response, so Broadcast Controller 180 can launch query messages now all energy controllers into load control system,
To determine which energy controller responds to the second remote control remote controllers 4051, i.e. the second remote control is long-range
Controller 4051 may be configured to the identity of the energy controller as commander.In Figure 11 F example, Broadcast Controller
180 the second remote control remote controllers 351 of discovery are configured for being only used for the commander of motorized window treatments 4020,
As shown in line 4095.
Due in the absence of to the first and second remote control remote controllers 4050,4052, take sensor 4060 and
More energy controllers that solar sensor 4070 responds, so Broadcast Controller 180 is then it can be concluded that in independence
More energy controllers or commander are not found in unit 4001.Broadcast Controller 180 can launch digital massage to light modulation
Device switch 4010 and motorized window treatments 4020, so that these energy controllers are associated with Broadcast Controller, and then
Separate unit association process can be terminated.In the normal operation period, Broadcast Controller 180 can be received by separate unit 4001
Energy controller and all RF signals of commander transmitting.By performing one or more polls shown in Figure 11 A to Figure 11 F
Technology, Broadcast Controller 180 can obtain the identity of the element of separate unit 4001 and in a variety of element (examples
Such as, the commander of energy controller or the energy controller by commander order etc.) between relation that may be present it is comprehensive
Understand.
Alternatively, separate unit association process can be by starting one of energy controller (for example, dimmer switch
4010) button on starts.In this case, Broadcast Controller 180 inquires about dimmer switch 4010 first, to find long-range control
Remote controllers 4050 processed, take sensor 4060 and solar sensor 4070 are configured for being used for dimmer switch
Commander, as shown in the line 4091 in Figure 11 B.Then, Broadcast Controller 180 launches query messages to load control system
All energy controllers in 100, to determine which energy controller to remote control remote controllers 4050 (in such as Figure 11 A
It is shown), take sensor 4060 (as shown in fig. 11C) and solar sensor 4070 (as shown in Figure 11 D) make sound
Should.Separate unit association process continues as described above, until all commanders and the energy controller quilt of separate unit 4001
It was found that untill.
In certain embodiments, can associated one or more energy controllers of separate units different from two respectively
In at least two can be arranged in first group.Broadcast Controller 180 can be further configured to make user's definition mark
Label are associated with first group.It can be corridor, meeting room, office, administration office, bathroom, open for example, user defines label
At least one in Fang Shi offices, guide signing, limited accass or public domain.Broadcast Controller 180 can further by
It is configured to determine the first situation, wherein, the first situation can correspond to be arranged to one or more of first group energy control
Device processed is operable to the one or more operations performed.Broadcast Controller 180 can be configured to by command signal launch to
First group address associated with first group.Command signal can be by being arranged into one or more of first group energy controller
Explain, to perform at least one in one or more operations.One or more of first group energy control can be arranged to
Device processed may be configured to make command signal more preferential than the control signal received from least one commander.At least one user
Defined property can be position, typical case's occupancy grade, period occupancy grade, security access level, function use or organizational hierarchy
In at least one.
In certain embodiments, Broadcast Controller 180 may be configured to receive the first signal, wherein, the first signal can
With the first corresponding situation of the one or more operations indicated with least one energy controller is operable to execution.Broadcast control
Device 180 processed can be configured to launch secondary signal at least one energy controller.Secondary signal can be by least one
Individual energy controller is explained, to perform at least one in one or more operations.Also, at least one energy controller can be with
It is configured to make secondary signal more preferential than the control signal received from least one commander.Broadcast Controller 180 can be from
At least one in electric utility or remote control remote control equipment receives the first signal.First situation can correspond to one
Or multiple demand responses defer to requirement.
Broadcast Controller 180 can be further configured to according to the second of one or more corresponding energy controllers at least
One user's defined property, one or more of corresponding energy controller is arranged into second group.Broadcast Controller 180 can
One or more of second group corresponding energy controller is arranged to be configured to the second group address being assigned to.Moreover,
Broadcast Controller 180 may be configured to by the second group address launch to be arranged to one or more of second group mutually should be able to
Amount controller.
Broadcast Controller can be further configured to determination and can correspond at least one clock program and at least one
Individual energy controller is operable to the second situation of the one or more functions performed.Broadcast Controller can be configured to by
3rd signal is launched at least one energy controller.3rd signal can be explained by least one energy controller, to perform
One or more functions.
Figure 12 is according to the fourth embodiment of the invention including two separate units 910,912 and Broadcast Controller 980
Load control system 900 simplification figure.As shown in Figure 12, Broadcast Controller 980 includes having such as liquid crystal display
(LCD) visual displays 985 of screen and the user interface of multiple buttons 986.Broadcast Controller 980 includes mutually orthogonal orientation
And it is separated for use in the antenna 990,991 of polarization and space diversity.Broadcast Controller 980 can include being coupled to respective antenna
990th, two RF transceivers of 991 (in the Broadcast Controllers as shown in fig. 7), or can include switching via RF
(Broadcast Controller 180 " as shown in fig. 7b) is coupled to the single RF transceivers of antenna 990,991.Such as in the present invention
First embodiment in, Broadcast Controller 980 be operable to launch digital massage to the commander of separate unit 910,912 and
Energy controller, and receive from it digital massage.Broadcast Controller 980 is operable to the independence from load control system 900
The commander and energy controller of unit 910,912 are collected and record data.
The commander and energy controller of separate unit 910,912, can be with during the configuration process of each separate unit
It is associated with Broadcast Controller 980.Broadcast Controller 980 in response to one of button 986 startup, in association mode, and
When in association mode, repeat its transmission goes out broadcast address.When Broadcast Controller 980 is in association mode, separate unit
910th, the starter starter on 912 each commander and energy controller can be activated, so that equipment is controlled with broadcast
Device processed is associated.In addition to the commander and energy controller that preserve the broadcast address received from Broadcast Controller, order
Device and energy controller can also each launch unique address to Broadcast Controller 980, and its preservation is related to Broadcast Controller
The list of the commander and energy controller of connection.Broadcast Controller 980 is operable to store the commander of separate unit 910,912
Programming and configuration information with energy controller, are used for the replacement of easy equipment to provide.The energy hole of separate unit 910,912
Device can be assigned to one or more of multiple energy controller groups by Broadcast Controller 980.
Broadcast Controller 980 is operable in response to one or more clock programs, control separate unit 910,912
Energy controller.Broadcast Controller 980 can be fixed according to the type and the type of electrical load of just controlled energy controller
The default clock program of the justice each energy controller associated with Broadcast Controller.In addition, clock program can be used
The user interface of Broadcast Controller 980 is conditioned.For example, Broadcast Controller 980 can be shown on visual displays 985 on
The information of one or more energy controllers.User can be enabled by each energy controller stepping, and using button 986
Or disable event clock for selected energy controller.Alternatively, the clock program of Broadcast Controller 980 can be used
It is being connected on the computing device (such as, tablet personal computer, smart phone, personal computer or laptop computer) of network 182
The program of operation is programmed.For example, the data of clock program can be loaded into removable memory, (such as, USB flash memory disks drive
Dynamic device), then it can be inserted into Broadcast Controller 980, and clock program is loaded into the memory on Broadcast Controller
In.In addition, clock program can use the PC, laptop computer, intelligence electricity that Cloud Server is connected to via network 182
Words or tablet personal computer configuration.
Figure 13 is the simplification figure of the Broadcast Controller 1080 of the alternate embodiment according to the present invention.Broadcast Controller 1080 is wrapped
Include visual displays 1085 and multiple groups of buttons 1086.Respective labels 1088 and corresponding light emitting diode (LED) 1089 are neighbouring every
Individual group of button 1086 is positioned.Label 1088 can annotate the title of the group associated with adjacent groups button 1086.When a group button
One of 1086 are pressed and during by the holding scheduled volume time, and Broadcast Controller 1080 is in a group association mode.It is one or more
Energy controller can be associated with Broadcast Controller 1080, and is in the same of group association mode in Broadcast Controller 1080
When, can in response to the starter starter on energy controller startup, be assigned to respective sets.The association process can be by
It is recycled and reused for each group of button 1086.Single energy controller can be assigned to multiple energy controller groups.LED1089 can be with
It is illuminated to indicate which group energy controller is assigned to.The user of group allows Broadcast Controller 1080 and energy controller
Easily associate, to provide the short trial run time for requiring the GF global functions that addition is provided by Broadcast Controller.In energy hole
Device be assigned to by group button 1086 represent it is multigroup after, the clock program of Broadcast Controller 1080 can connect one group with one group
Ground is configured.In one or more embodiments, Broadcast Controller 1080 utilizes two orthogonal directed antennas 1090,1091.
Figure 14 shows the simplification figure of the Broadcast Controller 1180 of the alternate embodiment according to the present invention.Broadcast Controller 1180
It can perform and be described for those same or similar functions of Broadcast Controller 980 and/or 1080.One or more
In embodiment, Broadcast Controller 1180 can have the visual displays of the visual displays similar to Broadcast Controller 1180
(not shown).In one or more embodiments, Broadcast Controller 1180 utilizes two orthogonal directed antennas 1190,1191.
Referring back to Figure 12, load control system 900 further comprises the corresponding power in each separate unit 910,192
Meter 990,992.Power meter 990,992 can be electrically coupled, to measure a variety of power loads by corresponding separate unit 910,912
Carry the total current (and by power of its consumption) extracted.Power meter 990,992 can be associated with Broadcast Controller 980, and
And the inquiry in response to being launched by Broadcast Controller is operable to, by the total of the electrical load in separate unit 910,912
The data of power consumption are launched to Broadcast Controller.Broadcast Controller 980 is operable to the number on the power consumption of load
According to storage in memory, the power consumption of load is shown on visual displays 985, or will include pass via network 182
Launch in the digital massage of the data of the power consumption of load to Cloud Server.In addition, one or more energy controllers can be with
Include the internal power metric circuit of the power for determining currently to be consumed by corresponding electrical load, wherein, power can also quilt
Launch to Broadcast Controller 980.Moreover, Broadcast Controller 980 is also operable on the operation of load control system 900
Other data storages in memory, for example, by take sensor 260,360 launch occupied information and state.
Broadcast Controller 980 (and/or Broadcast Controller 1080,1180) can obtain independent on first and/or second
The information of any control device of unit 910,912.As a part for acquired information, Broadcast Controller 980 can be from
One or more control devices of first separate unit 910 and/or the second separate unit 912, obtain status information and/or operation
Parameter.Status information and/or operating parameter can depend on specific control device, but can generally include:The electricity being consumed
The pond time, electrical load data (for example, consumption power, load impedance, open load circuit detection, trouble light), to being surveyed
Amount variable differential (for example, temperature setting measured temperature between it is differential) variable setpoint, contact closure condition,
Set point, actual electrical load intensity, ballast status, flue dust detection state for electrical load intensity, seizure condition, screening
Shield expansion extension (for example, covering be fully deployed, deploy half, completely withdrawal etc.), PID states, controller starting state,
Damper state (for example, 0%, 50%, 100% etc.) etc..
In one or more embodiments, as a part for acquired information, Broadcast Controller 980 can be from first
One or more control devices of the separate unit 912 of separate unit 910 and/or second obtain (and/or regulation) configuration parameter.Match somebody with somebody
Specific control device can be depended on by putting parameter, but can generally be included:Variable setpoint (for example, temperature set-point), touch
Point closure set point, the set point for electrical load intensity, covering deploy set point (for example, being fully deployed, deploying one
Half, covering withdrawn completely etc.), pid parameter, controller parameter, damper set point (for example, 0%, 50%, 100% etc.)
Deng.
In certain embodiments, for example, system operator can determine that first is only with use state information or operation information
What control device of the vertical separate unit 912 of unit 910 and/or second can require to safeguard and/or replace.Moreover, system is grasped
The corresponding control that author can configure the first separate unit 910 and/or the second separate unit 912 via Broadcast Controller 980 is set
Standby one or more configurable parameters.For example, system operator can use laptop computer or other computing devices with
Broadcast Controller 980 communicates (for example, via USB, Ethernet, and/or Wi-Fi connection), with status information, operating parameter
And/or configuration parameter docking.
In certain embodiments, energy controller can be released prior to the order from energy controller in many ways
The signal of device or order receive the obligation of (or paying the utmost attention to) signal or order from Broadcast Controller.For example, in some realities
Apply in example, Broadcast Controller can order energy controller enter normal mode.And as example, energy controller can be
Some time (examples after the order of Broadcast Controller order energy controller receiving (paying the utmost attention to) Broadcast Controller or signal
Such as, the scheduled volume time) after, reply the signal for receiving (or paying the utmost attention to) its commander or order.Again for example, Broadcasting Control
Device can transmitting be to energy controller by " release " message (order or signal), and energy controller can be construed to restart to connect
The order or the mandate of signal launched by (or paying the utmost attention to) by the commander of energy controller.Moreover, in certain embodiments,
Energy controller may be configured to terminate to perform the function by Broadcast Controller order (for example, when being based in energy controller
The function of clock) after, restart to receive order or the signal of the commander of (or paying the utmost attention to) energy controller.
In other words, energy controller can be updated so that energy controller can be via one or more foregoing machines
System, restarts to receive the order or signal of the commander of (or paying the utmost attention to) from energy controller.For example, in Broadcasting Control
Device order energy controller performs the function based on clock (for example, energy controller receives or pays the utmost attention to come from Broadcasting Control
The order of device, with perform function) after the scheduled time at, energy controller can restart receive (or paying the utmost attention to) energy
The order of the commander of amount controller or signal.
There is provided can be performed to obtain on one or more separate units by Broadcast Controller in certain embodiments
Constitute one or more methods of the information of node (or equipment).In one or more embodiments, Broadcast Controller can be with
One or more separate unit communications.In one or more separate units some or can each include one or more orders
Device and one or more energy controllers.Broadcast Controller can communicate with the first node of the first separate unit, wherein, first
Node can be at least one in the first commander or the first energy controller.Broadcast Controller can obtain first node
Address.Moreover, Broadcast Controller can obtain at least one address of node of the first separate unit from first node.At least one
Individual Section Point can be at least one in the second commander or the second energy controller, and at least one Section Point can
To be communicated with first node.Broadcast Controller can determine in first node or at least one Section Point at least one be
No is energy controller.Moreover, Broadcast Controller can be according to the determination, by first node or at least one Section Point
At least one is identified as energy controller.In addition, Broadcast Controller can be according to the determination, by the address of first node or extremely
At least one in the address of a few Section Point is identified as energy controller address.
In certain embodiments, Broadcast Controller can determine the operation between first node and at least one Section Point
Relation.Moreover, Broadcast Controller can determine first node whether with it is first independent in addition at least one Section Point
The node communication of unit.Broadcast Controller can communicate with least one Section Point.Moreover, Broadcast Controller can determine to
Whether a few Section Point communicates with the node of the first separate unit in addition to first node.Broadcast Controller can be with base
Do not communicated and/or at least one Section Point with other nodes in addition at least one Section Point in instruction first node
The determination not communicated with other nodes in addition to first node, determines that all nodes of the first separate unit have all been known
Not.
Broadcast Controller can communicate with least one Section Point.Broadcast Controller can also be from least one second section
Point obtains at least one the 3rd address of node of the first separate unit.At least one the 3rd node can be the 3rd commander or
At least one in 3rd energy controller.Moreover, at least one the 3rd node can communicate with least one Section Point.Extensively
Broadcasting controller can determine whether at least one the 3rd node is energy controller.Moreover, Broadcast Controller can be true according to this
It is fixed, at least one the 3rd node is identified as energy controller.In addition, for example, Broadcast Controller can be near according to the determination
Few 3rd address of node is identified as energy controller.
In certain embodiments, energy controller (as described in this) is operable in response to from least one commander
The control signal received, controls at least one electrical load.In certain embodiments, energy controller can include channel radio
Believe transceiver.Wireless communication transceiver is operable to receive the first signal from Broadcast Controller.First signal can include
Request to the information of one or more nodes of the separate unit on energy controller can be included.Radio communication transmitting-receiving letter
Machine may also respond to the first signal, and secondary signal is launched to Broadcast Controller.Secondary signal can include on separate single
The information of one or more nodes of member.Information on one or more nodes of separate unit can include one or more
The appropriate address of node.Also, the information on one or more nodes of separate unit can include energy controller and one
Operative relationship between individual or multiple nodes.
Although describing the present invention on specific embodiment, a lot of other changes and modification and other using for
It will be apparent for those skilled in the art.It is thus preferable to, the present invention is not limited by specific disclosure in this, but only
It is limited by the appended claims.